HomeMy WebLinkAbout12-04-23 - Study Session Agenda PacketSTUDY SESSION AGENDA
CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO 7500 W. 29th Ave. Wheat Ridge CO December 4, 2023
6:30 pm
This meeting will be conducted as a virtual meeting, and in person, at 7500 West 29th
Avenue, Municipal Building. City Council members and City staff members will be physically present at the Municipal building for this meeting. The public may participate in these ways: 1. Attend the meeting in person at City Hall. Use the appropriate roster to sign up to speak upon arrival.
2. Provide comment in advance at www.wheatridgespeaks.org (comment by noon on
December 4, 2023) 3. Virtually attend and participate in the meeting through a device or phone:
•Click here to pre-register and provide public comment by Zoom (You must preregister
before 6:00 p.m. on December 4, 2023)
4. View the meeting live or later at www.wheatridgespeaks.org, Channel 8, or YouTube Live at https://www.ci.wheatridge.co.us/view
Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to participate in all public meetings sponsored by the City of Wheat Ridge. Contact the Public Information Officer at 303-235-2877 or wrpio@ci.wheatridge.co.us with as much notice as possible if you are interested in
participating in a meeting and need inclusion assistance.
Public Comment on Agenda Items
1. Wheat Ridge 102 Presentations
2. Community Advisory Group
3. Overview of City Snow and Ice Control Policy and Related Efforts
4. Staff Report(s)
5. Elected Officials’ Report(s)
Memorandum
TO: Mayor and City Council
THROUGH: Patrick Goff, City Manager
FROM: Marianne Schilling, Assistant City Manager Paige Piper, Localworks Executive Director
DATE: December 4, 2023
SUBJECT: Wheat Ridge 102 Presentation
ISSUE: Wheat Ridge 102 participants have been working on two projects this fall: Green Business and
Snow Removal Assistance. Program participants will present their finalized project blueprints to
the City Council, with the goal of handing these projects off to staff for implementation. PRIOR ACTION: N/A
FINANCIAL IMPACT: N/A BACKGROUND:
Wheat Ridge 102 is a new program that grew out of Wheat Ridge 101, a seven-week interactive program designed to share detailed information about how the City of Wheat Ridge works, and to discuss strategies for community input and engagement. Participants in Wheat Ridge 102 were required to be graduates of the Wheat Ridge 101 program.
The goal of Wheat Ridge 102 is two-pronged. Primarily, the program is designed to build upon the skills that were learned in Wheat Ridge 101 and allow participants to go through the process of facilitating a needed change in the community. Additionally, the projects that were given to the program participants were hand-selected by staff to meet a need where there is limited staff capacity to research and/or add new programs. This year, the two projects include the
implementation of a green business program and a snow removal assistance program. Participants were provided projects that would be both useful and easy to hand off, and they worked with staff and community mentors to create a project blueprint and presentation with guidance on how the program would be implemented. This provided Wheat Ridge 102
participants with a real-time experience of learning how change is facilitated in a community.
Staff Report – Wheat Ridge 102 Presentation December 4, 2023
Page 2
DISCUSSION: The first Wheat Ridge 102 program launched in September 2023, and was designed to follow a
self-guided schedule with homework assignments, outside work requirements and a syllabus for
specific milestones in the project timeline. Participants were first given summaries of the program projects and they were assigned a project based upon their interest in that area. Following the project assignments, the participants worked
with their project mentors. Mentors included subject matter experts who were either City
personnel or involved residents in the community. The goal of the mentors was to help provide guidance along the way, asking questions of the group and keeping them on track. Each project required involvement with local businesses, community members and other
stakeholders. Regular check-ins were required as part of the program, and the whole group was
able to share questions and ideas with each other to strengthen the outcome of the projects. To complete the program, each group was required to complete a finalized project blueprint and give a presentation to the City Council with a full implementation plan that can be managed by
the City and/or supporting organization.
RECOMMENDATIONS: This presentation is informational only.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Project Blueprint – Green Business 2. Project Blueprint – Snow Removal Assistance
G r e e n Busines
s
W R 1 0 2
P A R T I C I P A N T S
Daniel Williams
Melody Mascarenaz
Jennifer Wiebesiek
M E N T O R S
Mary Hester
Joy Opp
ATTACHMENT 1
1
WHEAT RIDGE 102
Green Business Blueprint
INTRODUCTION
The City of Wheat Ridge and the Sustainable Wheat Ridge Committee have identified a Green
Business Program as one of the priority projects of city staff because it aligns with Wheat
Ridge’s 2035 Vision Statement, supports goals outlined in the City’s Sustainability Action Plan,
and advances the ongoing efforts of the Sustainable Wheat Ridge committee. The Wheat Ridge
102 Green Business project team, composed of Wheat Ridge residents, has created a roadmap
to launching a green business program in Wheat Ridge, with the goal of encouraging local
businesses to make more sustainable choices by providing them with industry-recognized green
business practices, metrics, and tracking tools to do so.
This document outlines the research the Wheat Ridge 102 Green Business project team
completed, the benefits of a green business program, and provides a proposal of how to launch
and implement this program in Wheat Ridge.
BACKGROUND
Summary
A green business recognition program would contribute to the overall sustainability of Wheat
Ridge by incentivizing and rewarding environmentally conscious practices among local
businesses, reducing their overall ecological footprint. Launching a green business program
would enhance the city's reputation as an environmentally responsible and forward-thinking
community, attracting environmentally conscious businesses and residents who prioritize
sustainable living and economic practices.
Implementing this program in Wheat Ridge would align with the City’s 2035 Vision Statement
which states that Wheat Ridge is a hub of commerce with a choice of economically viable
commercial areas and that Wheat Ridge is committed to environmental stewardship.
The 2018 Wheat Ridge Environmental Sustainability Action Plan (WRESAP) also supports the
implementation of a green business program:
● Goal 4: Engage Wheat Ridge businesses and organizations
● Goal 4-A: Green Business recognition by City Council
● Goal 4-B: Post and advertise Action Plan with businesses
● Goal 4-C: Engage businesses in sustainability efforts
● Goal 4-D: Communicate sustainability efforts to businesses
2
The Sustainable Wheat Ridge committee has awarded a green business award for the past
three years, and currently offers a small grant to businesses wishing to make sustainability-
related improvements to their practices, however, there is a desire to expand these efforts into a
more robust green business program.
The Green Business project team seeks to set a high standard for the City of Wheat Ridge
Green Business Program so that green business recognition would accompany accurate
sustainability metrics and would draw from industry-recognized sustainability programs such as
the EPA Green Building Standards, the US Green Building Council's Leadership in Energy and
Environmental Design (LEED®) and the CDPHE-based Colorado Green Business Network
(CGBN).
What is a Green Business?
A “Green Business” addresses sustainability in two fundamental ways: through sustainable
building improvements and sustainable business practices, as described below.
●Sustainable Building Improvements impact the form and function of the physical
building and the efficiency of its systems. These include a building’s use of energy,
water, and materials to reduce environmental impacts and improve occupant health
and well-being.
●Sustainable Business Practices include management and policy decisions that
impact the sourcing and life cycles of product material and merchandise,
maintenance and cleaning products, waste streams, and the occupant experience.
●Communities can prosper if businesses adopt the “Triple Bottom Line,” which
includes Profit, Planet, and People, also known as Economic, Environmental, and
Social Equity.
Benefits of a Green Business Program
A green business program can make a positive impact on the triple bottom line for businesses,
and in turn benefit the City by:
1.Mitigating climate change. Green businesses actively work towards reducing
greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change. They adopt sustainable
practices such as using renewable energy sources, implementing energy-efficient
technologies, and reducing carbon footprints. By doing so, they contribute to the overall
reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and help mitigate the effects of climate change.
This is especially important when considering that buildings account for approximately
40% of Wheat Ridge’s energy consumption.
2.Creating green jobs. Green businesses can generate employment opportunities in
sectors such as renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, waste management, and
eco-tourism. These jobs provide economic stability, promote environmentally friendly
practices, and contribute to the community's overall well-being.
3
3. Educating and raising awareness. Green businesses can play a vital role in educating
the community about environmental issues and sustainable practices. They can
organize workshops, seminars, and awareness campaigns to promote eco-friendly
behaviors and encourage individuals to take action against climate change.
4. Supporting local communities. Green businesses often prioritize sourcing locally and
supporting local suppliers and producers. This helps to strengthen local economies and
communities, creating a positive ripple effect. Additionally, they may engage in
community service initiatives such as tree planting, clean-up drives, or supporting
environmental conservation projects.
5. Collaboration and advocacy. Green businesses can collaborate with other organizations,
NGOs, and government agencies to advocate for policies and initiatives that address
climate change. By joining forces, they can amplify their impact and drive positive
change on a larger scale.
6. Creating great environments. Green buildings improve occupant comfort through natural
daylighting, improved air quality, and indoor-outdoor connections, and often contain
natural, biophilic, or sustainable materials that enhance employee productivity, well-
being, and retention.
7. Financial benefit. By adopting energy-efficient technologies and practices, businesses
can reduce operational costs in the long run and take advantage of incentives and
grants by governmental and utility agencies. Businesses can also attract
environmentally conscious consumers who prefer to support companies that align with
their values. This can lead to increased customer loyalty and a positive brand reputation.
Supporting and recognizing green businesses also establishes a sense of community
engagement, as it encourages collaboration between local governments, businesses, and
residents in achieving common environmental goals, creating a more resilient and
environmentally responsible city for future generations.
STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
To learn more about creating, implementing, and maintaining a green business program, the
Green Business project team interviewed local business owners, met with city staff, met with
potential partners at the state’s Colorado Green Business Network (CGBN), and connected with
CGBN regional partner Yampa Valley Sustainability Council who has implemented a similar
program.
Business Engagement
There are over 900 registered businesses with physical locations in Wheat Ridge. The Green
Business project team interviewed a handful of businesses, including both landlords and
tenants, to get a snapshot of their needs and challenges in implementing sustainable practices
and their interest in participating in a Green Business Program. Responses were positive, and
4
the project team recommends continuing to gather feedback from businesses to advance the
program after launching. The information listed below represents feedback and interests from
various local restaurants and bakeries:
● Strong desire for Citywide composting
● Grants for business improvements
● City assistance with providing shade trees, structures, or outdoor space for
businesses
● More affordable ways of sourcing products locally
● Compostable takeout containers that are cost-feasible
● Assistance finding new ways to be green
While this is a snapshot from a small representation of Wheat Ridge’s businesses, a green
business program could provide the resources necessary for businesses to tackle these
challenges.
Colorado Green Business Network (CGBN)
The project team met with staff from the Colorado Green Business Network (CGBN) to learn
more about the network, how to join, what the City’s commitment would look like, and benefits
for both businesses and cities.
The project team learned that CGBN is a voluntary network sponsored by the Colorado
Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) with funding from the EPA. The
program is administered by the State but implemented and maintained by Regional Partners,
which include municipalities, non-profits, volunteer groups, and other organizations around
Colorado. The Regional Partners are trained and supported by the CGBN staff to enroll local
businesses in the program and utilize the CGBN platform that “encourages, supports, and
rewards organizations that make the move toward the goal of true, operational sustainability.”
The CGBN community represents businesses across the state, large and small, implementing
unique and inspiring projects to reduce their environmental impact. The network aims to support
any business, industry, office, educational institution, municipality, government agency,
community, nonprofit, and organization from all corners of the state. A map of recognized
businesses is available on CDPHE’s website.
After further researching the CGBN, attending their annual Awards Ceremony, and interviewing
one of their staff members, the project team agreed that the CGBN would be a good partner
organization and platform to help a local Green Business Program get off the ground.
Additional information about the CGBN platform and application process is provided later in the
Implementation section.
5
CGBN Regional Partners
While the CGBN provides an industry-recognized platform and initial training to use the
program, the CGBN has limited staff and resources to cover the entire state. For technical
expertise on emissions, water, waste, energy, transportation, building improvements, business
policy questions, and grant funding opportunities, regional partners need the support of in-house
and/or outside professional consultants, utility agencies, and other industry resources.
The project team interviewed the Yampa Valley Sustainability Council (YVSC) regional partner
to learn more about the time commitments and outside resources needed to implement the
CGBN platform. The time commitment may average 10 hours a week, with more intensive
periods requiring more staff support. For the YVSC, this time is typically spent on grant
proposals, marketing, onboarding, and support for new businesses, including on-site
assessments, follow-ups, staff training, outreach to industry experts, planning, and staffing for
growth. The YVSC program has several staff members who can assist during time intensive
periods, but there is one main staff person managing the program.
Other CGBN regional partners include Fort Collins, Erie, and Evergreen, whose team is entirely
comprised of four volunteers. The project team recommends reaching out to these partners to
learn more about their processes.
IMPLEMENTATION
When considering how to implement a green business program in Wheat Ridge, the project
team evaluated how to roll out the program, market to new businesses, and provide onboarding
and maintenance tools, as well as growth opportunities over time. The project team
recommends utilizing the CGBN and their business tracking tool as the primary platform for
Wheat Ridge.
Becoming a CGBN Regional Partner
To become a CGBN regional partner, Wheat Ridge would need to submit a Regional Partner
application, likely due by February 1st, 2024. If accepted into the network, Wheat Ridge would
make at least a two-year commitment, and CGBN sets a goal for regional partners to engage
with and grow their programs by at least five businesses per year, which typically includes
providing technical assistance to those businesses. Participating businesses are required to
report on their metrics and actions taken through the GreenBiz tracker described in the next
section, and are asked to recertify every three years or annually if they are applying for
recognition.
If accepted into the CGBN network, CGBN staff will provide 10 hours of training for up to two
Wheat Ridge staff and/or volunteers. In the first year, CGBN staff will focus on training regional
partners to use the business tracking platform, how to perform on-site assessments and provide
technical assistance to businesses, and any other support needed. By the second year and in
subsequent years, Wheat Ridge would be expected to run the program independently, with
6
assistance as needed from CGBN. Approximately ten hours per week of allocated staff and/or
volunteer time is anticipated.
Tracking Business Sustainability Metrics and Providing Technical Assistance
CGBN provides the GreenBiz tracker tool for businesses to track their sustainability-related
actions and metrics. Businesses register for free, and then create a profile that is published as
part of a publicly searchable database to promote consumer awareness. Once registered,
businesses are asked to complete an informational survey. The survey aims to capture general
business information including policy and leadership, and establish a comprehensive view of
each company’s resource reduction efforts in the areas of energy, water, transportation,
purchasing, and waste; this also provides an opportunity for businesses to track reductions from
baseline metrics over time. It typically takes a business between 1-3 hours to complete this
survey annually.
Once businesses have registered on the GreenBiz tracker, they are eligible to request a free,
on-site assessment. On-site assessments provide the opportunity for Wheat Ridge staff, and
possibly volunteers, to visit a business and make recommendations for actions they can take to
incorporate green business practices into their operations, and provide follow-up connections to
other resources.
Business Recognition
A critical component of any green business program is ensuring there is a way to recognize
businesses for their efforts, achievements, and actions taken to “green” their practices. The
CGBN hosts an annual statewide recognition event for businesses who have participated and
earned either bronze, silver, or gold level through their actions as reported annually in the
survey. CGBN, in partnership with regional partners, offers additional ways to recognize
businesses that could be incorporated into the program including a governor signed certificate,
window decals, press releases, and speaking and panel opportunities.
Program Marketing
To successfully launch and maintain a green business program, the project team recommends
utilizing and promoting existing communication channels to share information, including:
● CGBN sponsored Workshops, Events, and Opportunity Newsletters
● Bi-monthly sustainability newsletters (461 subscribers)
● Connections newspapers
● Mayor’s Matters monthly e-newsletters (394 subscribers)
● Facebook/Instagram/Nextdoor
● Ads in the Gazette and other newspapers
● Wheat Ridge Business Association and Chamber of Commerce communications and
meetings
● Collaborations with Wheat Ridge Sustainable Neighborhoods and businesses within
their boundaries
7
The project team also recommends creating and promoting additional communications
channels:
● A new green business newsletter aimed at a business audience
● Quarterly trainings, get-togethers, and lunch-and-learns with staff, volunteers and
businesses
● Programming and recognition at the Annual Business Awards Breakfast
All communication materials will be co-branded with the CGBN logo for increased visibility and
cohesiveness across Colorado as new regional partners continue to join the network.
PROGRAM BUDGET
There is no direct financial expense for being a regional partner; however, there is a regular
time commitment estimated at 10 hours per week for the City’s Sustainability Coordinator and
indirect costs associated with marketing, outreach, and training sessions. The sustainability
budget has $1,250 allocated towards green business support in 2024.
A future consideration is the need for new staff or intern positions to assist as needed for
program growth. Other CGBN Regional Partners in Colorado utilize multiple staff, volunteers, or
interns to offer specialized skills or administrative support.
NEXT STEPS
In the short term, the project team recommends that Wheat Ridge apply to join the network,
complete training, and launch the program with the goal of engaging five businesses by the end
of 2024.
In the long term, the project team envisions Wheat Ridge building a gold standard program
amongst its peers by expanding upon the CGBN and GreenBiz Tracker framework. This could
be accomplished by collaborating with Community Development, Planning and Zoning, and
Building Division to create additional incentives to build “green”, to participate in code adoption
and amendment cycles, and to engage with local building professionals.
CONCLUSION
Green businesses play a crucial role in creating a more sustainable and environmentally friendly
future while reaping various benefits for themselves and their communities. Sustainable building
improvements and the adoption of environmentally-friendly technologies drive economic growth
both locally as well as in sectors related to renewable energy, waste reduction, and water
conservation. Better buildings attract residents, workers and customers to the community, while
reducing operational costs for businesses resulting in long term profit for business owners.
Sustainable business practices also reduce waste, promote sustainable supply chains and
improve occupant experience, customer satisfaction and community engagement.
8
Wheat Ridge will need to build up its network of local expertise, including trained staff members,
volunteers and outside building consultants, as well as strengthen its collaborations with other
city departments such as Community Development and Finance, Planning and Zoning, and
Building with the long-term goal of becoming a Green Business leader within the region.
The project team believes that implementing this program is an important step in meeting the
Wheat Ridge Sustainability Action Plan as well as meeting the triple bottom line of sustainability:
people, planet, and profit. Ultimately this program will make Wheat Ridge a better place to live,
work and visit for current and future generations.
S n o w R emoval
W R 1 0 2
P A R T I C I P A N T S
Bob Brazell
Clint Carlson
Sandra Davis
Patrick Quinn
M E N T O R S
Maria D’Andrea
Beth June
Community
ATTACHMENT 2
1
WHEAT RIDGE 102
Snow Removal Assistance (formerly “Snow Busters!”) Blueprint
INTRODUCTION
The Wheat Ridge 102 Program invited graduates of Wheat Ridge 101 to get more involved in
the community by participating in and helping spearhead actual projects with the assistance of
city staff. The City of Wheat Ridge and Localworks identified a volunteer drive snow removal
program as a priority. The goal of this program is to provide snow removal services to residents
and/or business owners who may not be able to, keeping our community safer while providing a
great way for residents to get involved.
In neighboring communities, a volunteer-led snow removal program has proven successful, both
with increasing resident happiness, opportunities for civic engagement, and safer
neighborhoods. It was clear in our process that Wheat Ridge can create a similar program to
meet the pillars of increased resident happiness, civic engagement, and neighborhood safety.
This report will cover the project background, the work completed, and the recommended
implementation plan for a community volunteer snow removal program.
BACKGROUND
Summary
Developing a volunteer program in Wheat Ridge solution to enlist community members for snow
shoveling assistance to those in need, both residents and business owners. The project’s core
focus is to ensure its sustainability with minimal involvement from City departments once
launched. To achieve this, Wheat Ridge will collaborate to identify community champions to
oversee the program, establish streamlined sign-up and matching systems for snow buddies,
and define clear eligibility criteria for those seeking snow shoveling assistance.
The project's final description and plan will emphasize the identified need and the significance of
a snow removal program, which includes a detailed roadmap for implementing a request system
and demonstrating how it can be efficiently managed in the long term without significant City
staff involvement. This may entail outlining resource requirements, estimated costs, volunteer
group partnerships, external service organization collaborations, and the creation of committees
to ensure the program's success, and ultimately a recommendation.
2
Problem/Opportunity Identified
The pressing need to assist the City’s aging community with snow removal cannot be
overstated. As winter approaches, many elderly residents face significant challenges in clearing
sidewalks and driveways, which pose safety risks and hampers their mobility. Addressing this
issue is not just a matter of convenience; it's a crucial step in ensuring senior citizens' well-being
and quality of life.
Other cities in the Denver Metro area also face this problem each Winter. Solutions have been
found through “snow buddies, snow angels” programs. Cities that have deployed and found
success in developing a local program are Arvada and Edgewater. Beyond city programs, non-
profit organizations have also attempted to solve this issue for broader communities.
Why Wheat Ridge?
Wheat Ridge has an aging community with a need for community support in areas such as
snow removal. Similar programs running successfully in our neighboring cities impress the need
both internally for our citizens, and also to keep pace with community services provided nearby.
Inspiration in Other Communities and Organizations
● Englewood: https://www.englewoodco.gov/our-city/community/neighborhood-resources-
program/neighbor-to-neighbor-programs/snow-buddies
● Arvada: https://www.arvadaco.gov/486/Snow-Buddies-Program
● Lincoln, NE:
https://www.lincoln.ne.gov/City/Departments/LTU/Transportation/Maintenance-
Operations/Winter-Operations/Snow-Angels#sign-up-form
● A Little Help (snow help along with other assistance): https://alittlehelp.org/ReceiveHelp
Work Completed
To better understand the issue and possible solutions, a significant amount of research and
work was completed throughout this project to help establish the recommendation.
High-level Overview of Work Completed
● Comprehensive documentation, including meeting notes, agendas, and completed
tasks.
● Development of a schematic workflow detailing the process of requesting and offering
assistance.
● Creation of user-friendly application mockups, emphasizing one-click assistance.
● Contingency plans for non-tech-savvy individuals, allowing them to sign up via phone.
● Thorough research into successful volunteer programs in neighboring cities (Arvada,
Englewood).
● Compilation of demographic data from both city records and surveys, identifying pilot
project "hot spots."
3
● Implementation of an application system for requesting help, including the necessary
legal agreements.
● Development of an application for volunteering, incorporating legal agreements and
feedback from WR city attorneys.
● Crafting of legally sound language, drawing inspiration from neighboring cities' practices.
● Brainstorming ideas for a Frequently Asked Questions section.
● Strategies for community outreach to spread awareness about the program.
● Environmental scan of other programs in the area.
Stakeholders Contacted
The following stakeholders were contacted throughout this process:
● Survey posted on City of Wheat Ridge social media and open to all residents. This
survey was designed to collect data on who needs help and who is willing to be of help.
● Wheat Ridge City Attorneys
● Leaders of similar projects in Arvada, Englewood, Lakewood
● Leadership at the Seniors’ Resource Center
● Leadership at A Little Help
Survey Results
The community survey was posted on the City of Wheat Ridge Facebook page in late October.
The language for the post stated:
The City of Wheat Ridge is exploring the development of a Snow Buddies program to
assist citizens of our city who need assistance with snow removal from their home
sidewalks and driveways. This survey will measure interest on both sides of the initiative
(helpers and those who request help) to inform the next steps of developing this exciting,
helpful project.
The results of the survey can be found below:
Question 1
4
Question 2
Question 3
How far would you be willing to travel to help? (25 responses)
● A block
● Within a mile of our house
● Neighborhood
● 5-7 miles
● Within a mile
● .5 mile
● 35 miles
● 1 mile
● Within 1 mile from 38th at Everett
PROJECT PROPOSAL
Based on the research conducted the and survey results form the community, the project team
identified two options: creates a snow assistance program in house, or partner with an
organization that is currently doing similar work.
In-House Solution
The opportunity to launch a Wheat Ridge specific snow removal program would need to be
done through two pillars, developing technology to host the program and volunteer coordination.
Technology solutions have been outlined in schematic workflows, form completion with data
flow, and application mock-ups.
These are intended to be rough proof of concepts to be taken to completion with the larger
picture of Wheat Ridge projects, marketing, and community.
5
Potential Workflow:
Phone App Prototype:
6
Partnership Solution
Through our environment scan of needs and programs in the area, the project team uncovered
an organization providing this service to connect volunteers and much more. The organization
that has been identified is ALittleHelp.org which is already doing what we aimed for, plus so
much more - https://alittlehelp.org/portal/snow-shoveling
A Little Help
Who is A Little Help? - A grassroots Colorado 501-c3 nonprofit that connects volunteers to help
older adults thrive and age well in their homes.
- 3500 background-checked volunteers
- 1800 older adults being helped
A Little Help helps older adults with transportation, yard work, light indoor cleaning, care
calls/visits, technology help, errands, and… snow shoveling!
Collaborating with A Little Help would also provide the following community benefits:
● Transportation run errands such as groceries
● Provide connections to people who can help residents around their homes
● Technology training
● Transportation to health care visits
● Pet assistance,
● And so much more!
A Little Help enables older adults to live safely and connectedly in their homes, helping to avoid
or delay the personal and governmental cost burden of assisted living (>$50,000/year) and
nursing home facilities (>$90,000/year).
RECOMMENDATION
While the data collection, brainstorming, app prototypes, signup forms, legal connections, QR
code printing, and all the hard work we've put into this over the last months is very valuable due
diligence, we suggest that Wheat Ridge does not move forward with a recommendation to build
this system in-house, by Wheat Ridge for Wheat Ridge.
The project team suggests that Wheat Ridge partners with a larger organization that can
accomplish all of our goals and address the opportunity we identified, including getting our
citizens connected and giving back in Wheat Ridge, without straining current City resources.
How will The Program Work?
Below is a bullet point summary of how the program could be operated:
● How it Works: https://alittlehelp.org/how-we-help
● Cost: A Little Help is on a “pay what you can” model. Donate to the system or not at all if
you can’t afford it.
7
● Background checks: Most volunteers are subject to a background check, but this has
loosened for snow removal and other volunteer opportunities outside of the home.
● Time Commitment: Volunteers typically spend 30 minutes per house and focus on
sidewalks and walkways. Driveways may be done also at the volunteer's discretion.
● Insurance: A Little Help carries liability insurance, and all our volunteers and older adult
members are protected in the State of Colorado by the Good Samaritan Law.
● Membership: - Pay what you can model!
○ Age: Individual is 55+ years of age
○ Location: Individual lives in an area serviced by A Little Help
○ Residence: Individual has a permanent residence
○ Need: Individual has needs that fall within the scope of A Little Help’s services.
Please visit our list of tasks we can help you with.
○ Communication: Individual is able to verbally communicate by oneself over the
phone or by email (80% of request come via phone call)
● Data: A Little Help will provide data for us to ID and celebrate outstanding volunteers
and where the needs have been greatest in WR.
● Community Connection: Volunteers connect for more than just volunteer work. A Little
Help also organizes meetups/happy hours to connect with other volunteers.
● Volunteer Enrollment: Suggestion to communicate to the city for Volunteers first and
then message those wanting help to signup (so we aren’t flooding the system with need
without pushing our own volunteers)
Funding/Budget
Item Cost
Marketing and Digital Navigator to let citizens of
WR know to sign up to help or call for help.
$500/year
Sponsorship for those who cannot afford A Little
Help (perhaps by another organization in WR)
$0/year
Gifts to celebrate volunteers $500/year
Beyond this budget, A Little Help also breaks down the money saved by those enrolling in A
Little Help. Data provided by the organization suggests and average Annual Cost Savings per
Household of $12,700.
Wheat Ridge Support
Beyond communication of the service, just a commitment to work with A Little Help going
forward to better support the connection between A Little Help and our residents in need will
allow our volunteers to become a reality through A Little Help.
8
CONCLUSION
Snow Removal Assistance is not just a wanted program in the community, through our work and
research, it is a necessary program to launch in our community. 20% of Wheat Ridge is over the
age of 65 with 8.3% of Wheat Ridge identifying as having a disability. These numbers are sure
to grow as Wheat Ridge continues to age. We also understand that Wheat Ridge is a changing
community with a larger population of younger residents who have identified that they are
looking for ways to give back. Allowing residents this opportunity is a tactic to provide greater
retention of our younger residents in the community.
A program like A Little Help rather than a locally created “Snow Busters” helps our community,
keeps tickets for non-shoveling to a minimum, and builds a network of volunteers to be
deployed for other assistance such as leave removal, tech support, ride-sharing, care visits, and
other needs.
We propose that the City of Wheat Ridge connects and properly collaborates with A Little Help
to help support the diverse needs of Wheat Ridge across a large range of programs and
volunteer connections that will help those with snow removal needs and beyond for a much
healthier community of helping each other.
Memorandum
TO: Mayor and City Council
THROUGH: Patrick Goff, City Manager
Chris Murtha, Chief of Police Marianne Schilling, Assistant City Manager
FROM: Cole Haselip, Management Analyst
DATE: December 4, 2023
SUBJECT: Community Advisory Group (CAG)
ISSUE:
Staff requests that the City Council revise its classification of the Community Advisory Group as a Hybrid Committee to a Staff-Selected Committee.
PRIOR ACTION: At the October 2, 2023 Study Session, Council reached consensus that the CAG would be
a Hybrid Committee. Therefore, four (4) of its ten (10) to fifteen (15) members would be
reserved for district representation and selected by City Council. All other members would be nominated by staff and ratified by Council.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
No impact.
BACKGROUND: The City has four uncodified special committees. Each of these committees is essential to the success of the City and community. These committees are not bound by the City’s Charter and
Municipal Code.
Staff proposed a framework to regulate these committees and address their ambiguity at the October 2, 2023 Study Session. According to the regulatory framework, each committee would be classified as either a Council-Selected, Staff-Selected, or Hybrid Committee. Their
classification determined committee member appointments, accountability, and rules.
After adopting this framework, the Council proceeded to reach consensus classifying each committee. Consequently, the Community Advisory Group (CAG) was classified as a Hybrid Committee, which would obligate the CAG to adhere to the following regulations:
•Four (4) of its 10-15 positions are to be appointed by the City Council and reserved for
Staff Report – Community Advisory Group December 4, 2023
Page 2
district representation.
• Remaining appointments must be nominated by staff and ratified by the City Council.
At the time, there was no Police Department representation at the meeting, and staff shared with Council that if there were any concerns with this framework, staff would be back to review those concerns. After the meeting, staff spoke with the Police Chief and Division Chief Lorentz and identified some concerns with establishing the CAG as a Hybrid Committee. It was determined
that staff should return to council to present these concerns so that Council could make a well-
informed decision. DISCUSSION: Community Advisory Groups (CAGs) are a proactive tool for police departments to engage with
community members. The City of Wheat Ridge developed its CAG based on the model deployed by
the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) in response to the 1992 Riots, which were triggered by the acquittal of police officers involved in the tragic beating of Rodney King. The LAPD recognized a disconnect with its community and moved to have a communications method that was direct and honest. It was the goal of this program to allow the difficult and unvarnished conversations to help
directly inform the leaders of the agency. The LAPD created several Community Police Advisory
Boards (C-PABs), each serving a different geographic area and reporting to a corresponding Area Commanding Officer (ACO). News about the LAPD program quickly spread and became a national phenomenon. Currently, several communities across the United States have similar boards and developing them is seen as a best practice of relationship-based policing.
Wheat Ridge Community Advisory Group (CAG) The Wheat Ridge CAG was first established in 2018 with the goal of advancing the City’s philosophy of relationship-based policing. One of its functions is to facilitate two-way communication between community members and the police. This practice is intended to foster
constructive dialogue which results in enhanced policing strategies and develops community trust.
The CAG also helps to organize and volunteer in events such as the City’s National Night Out, which celebrates community safety and law enforcement professionals. The CAG is proactive in its relationship with the Wheat Ridge Police Department. They actively
communicate with the police department on the effectiveness of existing policies and practices.
However, they do not participate in the selection of these policies. In Wheat Ridge, policies and practices are selected based on well-tested best practices, as dictated by legislative action, as required by the Colorado Pease Officer Standards and Training Commission (POST) or guidance from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). In other words,
this group offers insight perspective but does not craft or dictate any policies.
The CAG is ultimately accountable to the Police Chief. However, the Police Chief has delegated the authority to appoint members to the committee. In other words, the CAG is a self-selected committee. Committee members are encouraged to screen, nominate, and appoint respected
committee members in a bottom-up process. with the expectation that voices from all corners of the
community should be added whenever possible. This process has cultivated a trusting environment among committee members. Staff is concerned that changing the member appointment process could
Staff Report – Community Advisory Group December 4, 2023
Page 3
diminish the trust amongst committee members. The CAG often discusses sensitive topics such as contemporary social issues affecting policing, the
relationship between the police and the community, and policies and procedures of the Wheat Ridge
Police Department. These conversations can range from discussions on the use-of-force to the relationship between police and disadvantaged community members. For many people, these conversations can evoke emotionally driven responses. Additionally, CAG members may be privy to some information that is not appropriate for public discussion. As a result, members may be asked
not to share any details regarding particular CAG discussions with the public.
It is crucial to the effectiveness of the CAG that it can engage in some conversations free from outside scrutiny. Thereby incentivizing genuine discussion, respectful disagreement, and passionate debate. All of which produce the feedback necessary for the Police Chief to understand and engage
with a diverse range of opinions and better respond to concerns from members of the public.
If the CAG were to become a Hybrid Committee, then members could not be guaranteed that the contents of their conversations would remain private. If, for example, a committee member needed to be removed, then the Council could only do so by majority vote during a public hearing. Under
these circumstances, it is likely that the contents of sensitive conversations amongst the CAG would
be discussed publicly. Staff is concerned that this could diminish the ability of the CAG to engage in unreserved discussions, potentially harming its overall effectiveness. While the effectiveness of the committee relies upon its ability to engage in frank discussions, it is
imperative that disagreements remain respectful. Staff is concerned that if appointments are not
properly screened, and they are not accountable to the Police Chief, it is more likely that discussions could devolve into bad-faith, uncivil, and unproductive conversation which would diminish the CAG’s reputation and effectiveness. If members are ultimately accountable to the Police Chief, then staff would have more authority to ensure that discussion remains respectful and productive.
For many committees, concerns about diminishing committee member trust, the content of discussions becoming public, and maintaining the decorum of the committee could easily be overcome. However, the CAG is unique in its relationship with the Police Chief. Similarly, among the City’s departments, the Police Department has a unique relationship with the community. Due to
the novelty of the CAG, its mission, and the value of its effectiveness, staff respectfully requests that
the City Council reconsider the CAG’s classification as a Hybrid Committee. Rather, staff recommends that it be classified as a Staff-Selected Committee. Therefore, it would remain accountable to the Police Chief and maintain its current operating procedures.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff is seeking consensus for City Council to revise its classification of the Community Advisory Group from a Hybrid Committee to a Staff-Selected Committee ATTACHMENTS:
None.
Memorandum
TO: Mayor and City Council THROUGH: Patrick Goff, City Manager
FROM: Maria D’Andrea, Director of Public Works DATE: December 4, 2023 SUBJECT: Overview of City Snow and Ice Control Policy and Related Efforts
ISSUE
This memo provides an overview of the updated Snow and Ice Control Policy and the city’s available resources for responding to this critical function. A brief demonstration of the new web application for tracking city snowplows will also be provided. Staff is also seeking input from the City Council on whether additional resources should be
provided to address plowing sidewalks and/or bike lanes. In 2016, the city adopted a modification to the Municipal Code requiring property owners to remove accumulated snow from adjacent public sidewalks within 24 hours of the end of a storm event. The modification specifically excludes snow and ice deposited by a plow after the walk has been cleared by the property owner.
Community Service staff have not taken a proactive approach to addressing property owners who do not follow this ordinance. This has resulted in numerous complaints from pedestrians who cannot traverse the sidewalk network in a safe manner. Therefore, staff is also seeking direction on whether or not the City Council wishes to consider a stronger response regarding warnings and notices of violation.
BACKGROUND
The city believes that it is in the best interest of the community to assume basic responsibility for
snow and ice control on public streets. Effective snow and ice control is necessary for routine
travel and the provision of emergency services. The city will attempt to provide such control in a safe and cost-effective manner while keeping in mind safety, budget, personnel, and environmental concerns. The purpose of the City's Snow and Ice Policy is to effectively communicate to citizens, businesses, and the traveling public, the expected level of service for snow and ice plowing and
removal that the City of Wheat Ridge Public Works Department will provide to the community.
The goal for the department is to keep streets within the City passable during adverse weather conditions and in reasonably safe condition.
2
This does not mean bare, dry pavement should be expected after every snowstorm. The aim of snow and ice control operations is to return most road surfaces to safe winter driving conditions
as soon as feasible within the limitations of this policy, the city's limited resources, and weather
conditions. Flexibility is needed to adapt to the variety of circumstances and conditions during all snow events. The city’s funds are limited, and taxpayers require that they be spent cost-effectively. It is not
possible to address all snow and ice issues simultaneously and completely. It is also not practical
to maintain equipment and personnel availability at a level that is sufficient for all possible situations. Therefore, priorities and levels of service have been established in line with the allocated resources. Providing a higher level of service or engaging in different activities will require additional funding and/or re-prioritization of existing resources to cover different priorities.
Currently, during storm events, the city focuses on plowing primary streets (see map in Attachment 1) that carry the highest volumes of traffic. As snow subsides, the primary streets continue to be plowed while staff also addresses the secondary streets. Under extreme conditions, the city will consider plowing in residential/low volume streets.
The city’s Snow Response Plan is designed to efficiently utilize available resources – including staff time, materials, and equipment – to respond effectively to snow events. It has been evaluated over the past year and updated to reflect specific responses based on different types of snow events.
Priority Street Designations
• Priority 1 Streets: Streets shall be kept open to provide a transportation system network that connects hospitals, fire stations, police stations, and higher volume roadways.
• Priority 2 Streets: Minor thoroughfares that allow for neighborhood access to Priority 1
streets as well as I-70 frontage roads.
• Priority 3 Streets: Hilly residential streets where pavement traction may be required for vehicles to access properties.
Other low volume and residential streets (not designated as a priority on the Snow Map) will not be plowed unless accumulations of snow greater than 10 inches occur between the dates of December 1 and March 1 of each year. Outside of these dates, the sun will assist in melting to a degree that city-wide plowing is not required.
If plows are deployed into these low volume streets, the crews will plow such that one passable lane is available in the center of the street, i.e. plows will not plow from curb-to-curb. This is to prevent significant accumulations of snow being deposited in driveways, on sidewalks, and adjacent to parked vehicles.
Storm Classifications Depending on the storm’s severity, the city has established three levels of response to snow and ice removal. The following classifications are intended to serve as a guide to establishing effective snow removal strategies for different types of winter storms:
• Class 1 Storm - A storm predicted to last for less than 12 hours with anticipated snow accumulations of 4 inches or less. Under this storm classification, crews will plow and sand
3
all Priority 1 and Priority 2 streets. The effort and resources expended shall vary depending on accumulation and drifting conditions. Once a storm event has ended, Priority 3 streets
may be plowed.
• Class 2 Storm - A storm predicted to last for more than 12 hours with anticipated snow accumulations between 4 and 8 inches. Under this storm classification, crews will
concentrate on removing snow and ice from Priority 1 streets. The effort and resources
expended shall vary depending on accumulation and drifting conditions. After the storm event has subsided, or when sufficient clearing of the Priority 1 streets has occurred, crews will plow and de-ice Priority 2 streets. Once the storm event has ended, Priority 3 streets will be plowed within 24 hours.
• Class 3 Storm - A storm predicted to be extreme with snow accumulations on road surfaces at depths greater than eight (8) inches, accompanied by strong or gusting winds that create drifting and expected to last 24 hours or more. Under this storm classification, snowfall may be so heavy that only Priority 1 streets can be maintained in a serviceable condition
until the storm subsides. After sufficient clearing of Priority 1 and Priority 2 streets, crews will plow and de-ice Priority 3 streets within 24 to 48 hours. Crews will only be deployed to Priority 3 streets after Priority 1 and Priority 2 streets are in sufficiently good condition. Snow Plow Map
The city has established a map showing the various Priority streets by color. This map is located on the city’s website for reference by the public. Newly constructed streets, such as those in the Clear Creek area, need to be added to the map. Personnel
The Streets Division of the Public Works Department is the group primarily responsible for snow and ice control on city streets. Ten (10) Maintenance Technicians and one (1) Streets Supervisor are utilized to address each storm event. Typically, two teams of four technicians work 12-hour shifts until the storm event is complete and snow has been plowed from primary and secondary streets. When a storm lasts a long period of time, this can result in extremely long hours for staff
with limited time for rest. The intent of having 10 staff persons is to allow for the opportunity to have one person on vacation and/or off sick at any given time. Unfortunately, it has been difficult to hire for these positions due to the need for a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and the efforts by other agencies to hire as
well. Therefore, the city has had two vacant positions for more than 8 months. A third position was vacated in late-Summer. When these positions are not filled, no one is allowed to take vacation during winter months and, if someone gets sick, the Streets Supervisor or Fleet staff are required to fill a plow shift.
In addition, the Fleet Division staff is responsible for maintaining the equipment used to respond to snow and ice operations. Fleet staff may also assist with snow plowing efforts, as necessary. Equipment The city utilizes four tandem plow trucks with metal blades to push snow to either side of the
street. Sanders on the rear of the plow trucks dispense salt and chemical de-icing materials. The
4
trucks hold approximately 10 tons of material each. Two heavy duty (1 ½ -2 Ton) trucks are outfitted with plows and can be used in tight areas or locations where specific cleanup is required.
A motor grader and front end loader are also available, if needed, to assist with ice removal or
snow hauling. The average age of the tandem plow trucks is 14 years. A new plow was ordered in early 2021 but was not received until mid-2023. Similarly, funds to replace one of the existing trucks was included
in the 2024 budget. If it is ordered in early 2024, it likely won’t be received until sometime in
2025. The sanders are calibrated to ensure consistent application of material. Technicians are allowed the ability to apply additional materials, as needed, in specific locations. Beginning in the 2023-
2024 snow season, specific quantities by truck, will be tracked with the goal of reducing
application rates, if possible, to less than 100 tons/lane-mile. Materials The amount of salt that is utilized in each storm event and each snow season, varies due to a variety
of factors including the ambient temperature and pavement temperature, the amount of snow
deposited, the time of year (angle of the sun), and the forecasted weather. The following chart shows the amount of salt purchased over the last five seasons:
Other Agency’s Roadways
Some sections of streets within the city limits and on the boundaries of the city are maintained by other jurisdictions. These agencies are responsible for snow and ice removal within their specific rights-of-way. Written agreements with the cities of Lakewood and Arvada are in place that address snow removal on specific boundary street segments.
Portions of three state roadways (Kipling Street, Wadsworth Boulevard, and Sheridan Boulevard) and two interstate freeways (I-70 and I-76) pass through the city. These roadways are owned and maintained by the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) including snow removal.
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
160
180
2019-2020 2020-2021 2021-2022 2022-2023
Salt Usage vs Snow Total Accumulation
Snowfall (inches)Salt Usage (Tons)
5
City crews may be assigned to assist CDOT in plowing these streets as necessary, in the event of
heavy accumulations and/or if an emergency has been declared. For the purposes of this policy,
these roads will be considered as Priority 2 streets. Environment Materials to maintain or improve surface traction contribute pollutants such as sand and chlorides
to surface waters, stormwater basins and other facilities, which in turn can increase the cost of
maintaining those facilities. It is important not to use these materials in excess of what is required to provide a relatively safe condition. The city may use liquid and solid de-icing chemicals when hazardous conditions exist.
The Streets Supervisor will determine the chemical application, manpower and equipment needed
based on the environmental conditions and the provisions of this practice. Cold, wind, visibility, equipment failure or disability, rapid snow and ice accumulation, and/or other unforeseen conditions or emergencies may prevent or delay safe and effective management of the storm.
Technology
The American Public Works Association (APWA) hosts an annual Snow & Ice Conference which provides educational sessions, a Snow Roadeo for competition amongst local drivers, and an extensive materials and equipment expo. New technologies are always evaluated by staff for possible application within the city. This year, a new type of plow blade is being tested on one
tandem truck to determine if they are a more cost-effective option that reduces replacement
frequency. Communications In line with new technology, the city chose to budget and invest in automatic vehicle locating
(AVL) technology for the tandem trucks. This will allow the Street Supervisor, the Director, the
Police Department, and all of the plow drivers to know where plows are currently working and view their paths in real time. DISCUSSION
Failure to remove snow on sidewalks can result in public safety and liability issues and reduce
mobility options, including access to transit and other destinations. Due to several large snowfalls experienced in the 2022-2023 snow season, the issue of snow removal from public sidewalks became a topic of potential discussion by the city. In 2016, in response to numerous complaints regarding lack of snow removal on sidewalks, the city approved a modification to the municipal
code to require that property owners remove snow and ice within 24 hours after each snowfall of
two inches or more. The code also states that the definition of "Snowfall" shall not include any accumulation of snow, ice or sleet as a result of street or sidewalk clearing or plowing activities undertaken by the City of Wheat Ridge or the Colorado Department of Transportation. The director of public works has the authority to remove any accumulation of snow, ice or sleet from
a sidewalk and charge the cost of such removal to the property owner.
The city (through the Parks & Recreation Department) provides snow removal on city streets adjacent to city facilities such as the Recreation Center, various parks, and the Clear Creek Trail as well as the parking lots and trails within parks. Also, the city provides snow removal on
6
sidewalks along 38th Avenue between Harlan St. and Sheridan Blvd., as these sidewalks are a part of streetscape improvements constructed by the city.
In researching the 2016 action, it appears that the City Council wished to adopt an ordinance that would allow the city to respond to complaints, take action, and enforce compliance. However, direction was also provided that enforcement should come with broad public education and outreach, that complaints be addressed on an individual basis, and that initial enforcement
consisting primarily of warnings.
Unfortunately, many areas in the city have sidewalks installed directly adjacent to the edge of the street/back of the curb and gutter thus providing no space for snow storage between the paved/travel lanes and the sidewalk. In many locations where no snow storage is available, it
becomes a “back and forth” between the city’s plows and the property owners.
A relatively recent, but related issue has become removal of snow from on-street bike lanes. Bike lanes have been installed on various streets over the past 5-7 years with more installations planned for the near future. Typically, bike lanes are installed by utilizing existing pavement and
reallocating space from vehicle travel lanes to bicycle lanes. While the width of the pavement
doesn’t change, these installations typically provide less room for any type of snow storage. Staff’s response has been to attempt to plow bike lanes only after all plowing operations and clean up have occurred on the vehicular system.
The options in these cases where no snow storage is available, is to 1) wait for the snow to melt;
or 2) remove snow by picking it up and depositing it somewhere else. Snow removal and depositing would be costly – requiring additional equipment, personnel or a contract with a service provider. It would also require a location to deposit the snow (such as a park parking lot) where runoff and the associated contaminants could be addressed. It is estimated that the initial cost
would be in the range of $350,000 annually to address a network of approximately 10-12 miles of
sidewalks and/or bike lanes. The City of Arvada conducts sidewalk snow removal on sidewalks and trails for about 100-120 miles through their Parks Department. They have 56 full time Parks employees as well as some
seasonal staff to assist in this effort. They begin plowing sidewalks after 1-2 inches of
accumulation at 5 a.m. and expect all first priority routes to be complete by 8 a.m. First priority routes are adjacent to schools and city facilities, second priority routes are connecting routes to schools and main roads. Greenbelt trails are the lowest priority.
Bike lanes fall under Arvada Public Works as a part of their street removal responsibilities.
Similarly, as the city plows snow onto the sidewalks, the Parks plows it back off onto the street. While the Parks staff attempts to keep most of the snow on the edge of the sidewalk, they will resort to working collectively to remove and haul the snow away.
Questions for Consideration:
• Should additional resources be considered to address snow plowing and/or removal from sidewalks?
• Should additional resources be considered to address snow plowing and/or removal from
bike lanes?
7
• Should certain sidewalks and/or bike lanes be prioritized over current ones that are
addressed by staff?
• Is there a desire to more proactively address violations of the sidewalk clearing code? Attachments: 1. Snow and Ice Control Policy
2. Winter Snow Plow Map 3. FAQs Document
SNOW and ICE CONTROL
POLICY
Revised: October 2023
ATTACHMENT 1
Purpose The following policy sets in place criteria for managing snow and ice removal efforts on the city street network during inclement winter weather events.
The principal objective of the city’s Snow and Ice Control Policy is to provide for the safe and efficient flow of traffic on city streets and maintain access for emergency response during periods of inclement, winter weather. The policy has been developed to maximize resources by making efficient use of equipment and materials during
winter storm events. Plow routes have been established and priorities assigned to
ensure that the minimum road network required for operation of emergency vehicles is always maintained. Flexibility remains the cornerstone of the policy. To be effective, priorities must be
reassessed periodically, and routes altered to keep pace with development and traffic
volumes. The Public Works Department is the primary entity responsible for snow and ice control on city streets. The Department utilizes a proactive approach to snow and ice
control based on prioritized streets and types of storm events. Streets shall be plowed
in the following order of priority: A. Priorities. Snow and ice removal operations are divided into three (3) Priorities:
1) Priority 1: Primary streets that are considered main thoroughfares, as well as roadways adjacent to schools, hospitals and police or fire stations. These streets may be pre-treated with liquid and/or granular deicing materials prior to storm events to prevent the formation of ice and accelerate the melting
of snow. Priority 1 streets are shown in Red on the Snow Plow Map.
2) Priority 2: Minor thoroughfares that allow for neighborhood access to Priority 1 streets as well as I-70 frontage roads. These streets may be pre-treated with liquid and/or granular deicing materials prior to storm events to prevent the formation of ice and accelerate the melting of snow. Priority 2
streets are shown in Green on the Snow Plow Map.
3) Priority 3: Hilly residential streets where pavement traction may be required for vehicles to access properties. These streets are typically not pre-treated prior to storm events. Priority 3 streets are shown in Blue on the Snow Plow Map.
• Other residential or low volume streets will not be plowed or treated unless a snow event occurs with accumulations of 10 inches or more, between December 1 and March 1 of each year. In those cases, crews will plow the
centers of all residential streets to create one passible lane.
• The city does not plow alleys. Alleys are too narrow to allow for plowing or placement of plowed snow.
The snow plow routes will be reviewed annually and available to be viewed by the public on the Snow Plow Map on the city’s website: Snow Removal Information | Wheat Ridge, CO - Official Website
B. Storm Classifications. Snow events are categorized using a storm level scale based on reports from the field as to the severity of conditions, as well as other methods, including
forecasts, satellite images and supervisor experience. The following classifications of storms are defined below:
1) Class 1 Storm: A storm predicted to last for less than 12 hours with anticipated snow accumulations of four (4) inches or less. Under this storm
classification, crews will plow and sand all Priority 1 and Priority 2 streets. The effort and resources expended shall vary depending on accumulation and drifting conditions. Crews will treat approaches to intersections and will attempt to clear snow and ice from all travel lanes of primary streets. 2) Class 2 Storm: A storm predicted to last for more than 12 hours with
anticipated snow accumulations between 4 and 8 inches. Under this storm classification, crews will concentrate on removing snow and ice from Priority 1 streets. The effort and resources expended shall vary depending on accumulation and drifting conditions. After the storm event has subsided, or when sufficient clearing of the Priority 1 streets has occurred, crews will
begin to plow Priority 2 streets.
3) Class 3 Storm: A storm predicted to be extreme with snow accumulations on road surfaces at depths greater than eight (8) inches, accompanied by strong or gusting winds that create drifting and expected to last 24 hours or more. Under this storm classification, snowfall may be so heavy that only
Priority 1 streets can be maintained in a serviceable condition until the storm subsides. After sufficient clearing of Priority 1 streets, crews will plow and de-ice Priority 2 streets followed by Priority 3 streets. Operations Responsibilities The Public Works Department shall be responsible for snow removal operations and shall staff the incidents or events as necessary to carry out operations efficiently.
A. The Public Works Department shall be staffed to respond to a snow event as
soon as determined necessary by the Director of Public Works, the Streets
Division Supervisor, or the City Manager. The Streets Division Supervisor shall initiate the applicable snow response plan. The first step will be to notify the crews of initiation of snow response plan, next is classifying the snow event, and then finally directing operations in accordance with the priorities
established herein.
B. If weather information indicates that operations are anticipated in advance of the approaching storm, the Streets Supervisor shall direct specific operators to be at work and ready to commence operations as soon as practical. C. All incoming calls regarding snow removal shall be routed to the Public Works
Department.
D. No private roads or driveways extending off city rights-of-way shall be cleared by city equipment, with the following exceptions: if a citizen needs a private
road or driveway opened for a medical or other emergency the citizen may call Emergency Services (911). Emergency Services or the Wheat Ridge Police Department will then contact the Public Works Department. The Public Works
Department will then contact the appropriate operator who shall meet the
emergency vehicle at the site and open the road or driveway for the emergency vehicle. E. Emergency Conditions. Plow operators are directed that the priority is to get roads cleared as fast and safely as possible, emergencies excepted. Operators
are authorized and directed to stop and assist disabled vehicles only if it is
necessary to clear the road or if life or health is in danger. If an abandoned vehicle is blocking the roadway, the operator shall radio the location, license plate number and description of the vehicle to the Public Works Department. The Public Works Department shall contact the Wheat Ridge Police
Department, informing the Dispatcher that a hazard exists, and the vehicle
should be removed from the city right-of-way. Snow and Ice Event Deployment During normal working hours, de-icing and/or plowing operations in anticipation of a
snow or ice event may be initiated by the Streets Division Supervisor.
After normal working hours, de-icing and/or plowing operations may be initiated by the Streets Division Supervisor or based on feedback on road conditions by the Wheat Ridge Police Department and any other agency, including the Colorado State Patrol.
In those cases. the Streets Division Supervisor will consider this input and then initiate
de-icing/plowing operations as warranted. Levels of Service The deployment of city resources to manage snow and ice operations depends upon
the storm classifications and street priorities. The time and effort required to remove
snow and ice from streets depends on a variety of conditions unique to each storm event, including the following:
• Storm event intensity and accumulation
• Anticipated snow event duration
• Type of snow, ranging from light/dry to heavy/wet
• Ambient air and pavement surface temperatures before and expected after
snowfall
• High winds and drifting conditions
• Traffic conditions
• Time of day Deicer Application & Implications
The city may use liquid and solid de-icing chemicals when hazardous conditions exist.
The city is concerned about the effect of such chemicals on the environment and carefully controls and monitors application rates. It is important to use anti- icing chemicals prudently during snow control operations.
Plow operators are instructed in how to apply the appropriate amounts of these deicers
depending upon the type and demand of the storm to prevent the formation of ice and accelerate the melting of snow and ice that has already accumulated. The deicers to be used will include both liquid and granular materials.
Caliber, which is a blend of a corn derivative, magnesium chloride and water, is the predominate liquid deicer product to be applied, typically during the colder portion of the winter season. All liquid deicers used contain corrosion inhibitors.
Granular deicers that will be applied in combination with the liquid deicers to the
streets include common sodium chloride (rock salt) and a product called Ice Slicer, which is a complex rock salt material. Sand is typically not applied except in specific situations where additional traction is
required for the safety of vehicles as determined by the Streets Supervisor. The
application of sand and abrasives during storm events has been identified by the Regional Air Quality Council (RAQC) as a major contributor to the Denver metropolitan area’s particulate pollution. The Public Works Department is required under legal mandates, which are regulated by the RAQC, to comply with certain application rates.
Limiting application rates reduces the quantity of particulates in the air and the amount
of chemicals and sand deposited in waterways. Priority East-West Bound Streets West 44th Avenue: Hollman to Fenton Street.
West 41st Avenue: Kipling to Independence & Ammons to Wadsworth Blvd. West 39th Avenue: Kipling Street east to school & High Court to Reed Street West 38th Place: Parfet Street to Oak Street West 38th Avenue: Youngfield Street to Sheridan Blvd. West 32nd Avenue: Youngfield Service Road to Sheridan
Blvd. West 29th Avenue: Wadsworth Blvd. to Sheridan Blvd. 40th Avenue Clear Creek Drive to Youngfield Street *West 26th Avenue: Pierce Street to Sheridan Blvd. * West 26th Avenue from Oak to Kipling Street & Wadsworth Blvd. to Pierce Street is
maintained by the City of Lakewood.
Priority North-South Bound Streets Youngfield Street West 29th Avenue to West 44th
Avenue Quail Street: West 32nd Avenue north to school Pierson Street: West 32nd Avenue north to school Parfet Street: West 32nd Avenue to West 38th Place Miller Street: West 44th Avenue to I-70 South Frontage Road Kipling Street: I-70 North Frontage Road to West 51st Place
Independence Street: West 38th Avenue to West 41st Avenue &
West Independence Street: West 44th Avenue to I-70 South Frontage Holland Street: West 32nd Avenue to West 38th Avenue Dudley Street: West 32nd Avenue to West 38th Avenue Dover Street: West 38th Avenue to West 44th Avenue
Ammons Street: West 41st Avenue to West 44th Avenue
Upham Street: West 38th Avenue to West 44th Avenue High Court: West 38th Avenue to West 39th Avenue Reed Street: West 38th Avenue to West 44th Avenue
Pierce Street: West 26th Avenue to West 44th Avenue Otis Street: West 38th Avenue to West 44th Avenue Harlan Street: West 32nd Avenue to I-70 overpass Marshall Street I-70 to West 49th Drive Clear Creek Drive 32nd Avenue to 40th Avenue
Ice Removal Operations The freeze/thaw cycles Colorado experiences throughout the winter create large areas of ice buildup, especially on the highly shaded south sides of the streets. Staff will monitor these known locations. Crews will be deployed to locations with ice dams
when they are reported to the Public Works Department and will be addressed through
a variety of means if it is determined that ice dams are creating hazards to motorists or pedestrians or causing excessive blockage to drainage flows. Other Jurisdictions
Some sections of streets within the city limits are maintained by different jurisdictions, including the City and County of Denver, the City of Lakewood, the City of Edgewater, and Jefferson County. These agencies are responsible for snow and ice removal within their specific rights-of-way. Written agreements with the cities of Lakewood and Arvada are in place that address snow removal on specific boundary street segments.
Kipling Street, Wadsworth Boulevard and Sheridan Boulevard are owned and maintained by the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) including snow removal. City crews may be assigned to assist CDOT in plowing these streets as necessary, in the event of heavy accumulations and/or if an emergency has been
declared. For the purposes of this policy, these roads will be considered as Priority 2 streets. Weather Conditions The city will use various weather services to provide staff with up-to-date forecasts to
develop a strategy to address each storm event. This information will determine
appropriate application rates to be effective for both costs and environmental concerns. Deviation from Policy If a person responsible for the execution of this policy determines deviation from this
practice to be in the best interest of the City of Wheat Ridge, the deviation will be
documented. Documentation includes identifying the cause, why the response was necessary and how long the deviation will be in effect. Training
It is important that personnel involved in snow and ice management receive
appropriate training to increase their awareness and the judgment that they must exercise when plowing and applying materials within the public right-of-way. The Streets Supervisor is delegated the authority to determine and provide appropriate training for all staff members participating in snow & ice removal operations. The
supervisor will document conformance with all training by all personnel on an annual basis.
No Waiver of Governmental Immunity No term or condition set forth in this policy shall be construed or interpreted as a waiver, express or implied, of any of the immunities, rights, benefits, protections, or other provisions, of the Colorado Governmental Immunity Act, Section 24-10-101, et seq., C.R.S., as applicable. Furthermore, nothing set forth in this Chapter shall be
construed as creating a duty of care upon any individual or party.
JA
Y
6
2
0
0
IR
I
S
9
7
0
0
OT
I
S
6
7
0
0
LE
E
1
0
2
0
0
GR
A
Y
5
9
0
0
QU
A
Y
6
9
0
0
RE
E
D
7
0
0
0
FI
E
L
D
9
0
0
0
TA
F
T
1
1
9
0
0
CO
D
Y
8
5
0
0
AM
E
S
5
3
0
0
CO
L
E
1
3
6
0
0
RO
B
B
1
1
4
0
0
ES
T
E
S
8
8
0
0
VA
N
C
E
7
4
0
0
QU
A
I
L
1
1
2
0
0
EA
T
O
N
5
7
0
0
YA
N
K
1
2
9
0
0
LA
M
A
R
6
4
0
0
CH
A
S
E
5
5
0
0
Z
A
N
G
1
3
0
0
0
DO
V
E
R
8
7
0
0
YU
K
O
N
7
7
0
0
OA
K
S
T
1
0
8
0
0
UP
H
A
M
7
3
0
0
UN
I
O
N
1
2
0
0
0
DE
P
E
W
5
6
0
0
VI
V
I
A
N
1
2
3
0
0
TA
B
O
R
1
1
8
0
0
CA
R
R
S
T
8
4
0
0
RO
U
T
T
1
1
5
0
0
ZI
N
N
I
A
1
3
1
0
0
UR
B
A
N
1
2
1
0
0
QU
E
E
N
1
1
3
0
0
XE
N
O
N
1
2
6
0
0
BA
L
S
A
M
8
2
0
0
ZE
P
H
Y
R
7
9
0
0
MI
L
L
E
R
1
0
4
0
0
FE
N
T
O
N
5
8
0
0
BE
N
T
O
N
5
4
0
0
BR
A
U
N
1
3
5
0
0
FL
O
W
E
R
9
1
0
0
PA
R
F
E
T
1
1
0
0
0
OW
E
N
S
1
0
9
0
0
MO
O
R
E
1
0
5
0
0
YA
R
R
O
W
7
8
0
0
WR
I
G
H
T
1
2
5
0
0
KE
N
D
A
L
L
6
3
0
0
EV
E
R
E
T
T
8
9
0
0
NE
L
S
O
N
1
0
6
0
0
WA
R
D
R
D
1
2
4
0
0
JE
L
L
I
S
O
N
9
8
0
0
PI
E
R
C
E
S
T
6
8
0
0
GA
R
L
A
N
D
9
3
0
0
JO
H
N
S
O
N
9
9
0
0
NE
W
L
A
N
D
6
6
0
0
SW
A
D
L
E
Y
1
1
7
0
0
SI
M
M
S
S
T
1
1
6
0
0
MA
R
S
H
A
L
L
6
5
0
0
KI
P
L
I
N
G
S
T
1
0
0
0
0
AL
K
I
R
E
S
T
1
3
2
0
0
SA
U
L
S
B
U
R
Y
7
1
0
0
XE
N
O
P
H
O
N
1
2
7
0
0
EL
D
R
I
D
G
E
S
T
1
4
0
0
0
CR
A
B
A
P
P
L
E
1
3
8
0
0
SH
E
R
I
D
A
N
B
L
V
D
5
2
0
0
WA
D
S
W
O
R
T
H
B
L
V
D
7
6
0
0
KL
I
N
E
1
0
1
0
0
LE
W
I
S
1
0
3
0
0
TE
L
L
E
R
7
2
0
0
DU
D
L
E
Y
8
6
0
0
AL
L
I
S
O
N
8
0
0
0
IN
G
A
L
L
S
6
1
0
0
AM
M
O
N
S
8
1
0
0
PI
E
R
S
O
N
1
1
1
0
0
WE
B
S
T
E
R
7
5
0
0
NE
W
M
A
N
1
0
7
0
0
HA
R
L
A
N
S
T
6
0
0
0
GA
R
R
I
S
O
N
S
T
9
2
0
0
BR
E
N
T
W
O
O
D
8
3
0
0
YO
U
N
G
F
I
E
L
D
1
2
8
0
0
VA
N
G
O
R
D
O
N
1
2
2
0
0
IN
D
E
P
E
N
D
E
N
C
E
9
6
0
0
HO
Y
T
9
5
0
0
BE
E
C
H
1
3
3
0
0
HO
L
L
A
N
D
9
4
0
0
IN
D
I
A
N
A
S
T
1
5
0
0
0
HO
L
M
A
N
S
T
1
4
6
0
0
DENVER
EDGEWATER
ARVADA
JEFFERSONCOUNTY
LAKEWOOD
LAKESIDE
MTN VIEW
44TH AVE
32ND AVE
38TH AVE
26TH AVE
I7
0
E
B
H
W
Y
GREENB
E
L
T
P
K
W
Y
I70 WB HW
Y
52ND AV
KIP
L
I
N
G
S
T
52ND AVE
PIE
R
C
E
S
T
29TH AVE
HA
R
L
A
N
S
T
RIDGE RD
I76 EB
H
W
Y
CH
A
S
E
S
T
WA
D
S
W
O
R
T
H
B
L
V
D
AM
E
S
S
T
IN
D
I
A
N
A
S
T
I70 FRONTAGE RD
RE
E
D
S
T
WA
R
D
R
D
55TH AVE
QU
A
Y
S
T
YO
U
N
G
F
I
E
L
D
S
T
DE
P
E
W
S
T
CO58 WB HWY
CO58 EB HWY
ELD
R
I
D
G
E
S
T
54TH AV
FE
N
T
O
N
S
T
TA
B
O
R
S
T
48TH AVE
BE
N
T
O
N
S
T
43RD DR
54TH DR
MIL
L
E
R
S
T
PA
R
F
E
T
S
T
TE
L
L
E
R
S
T
OT
I
S
S
T
I76 WB
H
W
Y
41ST AVE
CA
R
R
S
T
38TH PL
49TH D
R
SIM
M
S
S
T
DO
V
E
R
S
T
45TH AVE
UP
H
A
M
S
T
HILLSIDE DR
54TH PL
BERRY RD
CRABAPPLE RD
FIG
S
T
DU
D
L
E
Y
S
T
RO
B
B
S
T
35TH AVE
FOOTHILL R
D
27TH PL
27TH AVE
HIG
H
C
T
SK
Y
L
I
N
E
D
R
28TH AVE
HO
L
L
A
N
D
S
T
50TH AVE
46TH PL
29TH P
L
54TH AVE
NE
W
L
A
N
D
S
T
JAY
S
T
43RD AVE
26TH PL
KIP
L
I
N
G
P
K
LA
M
A
R
S
T
BRAUN RD
SE
R
V
I
C
E
R
D
BE
E
C
H
S
T
AL
L
I
S
O
N
S
T
BR
A
U
N
S
T
YA
R
R
O
W
S
T
56TH CR
TA
F
T
C
T
27TH DR
CS
H
1
2
1
SA
U
L
S
B
U
R
Y
S
T
44TH PL
UN
I
O
N
S
T
32ND PL
BR
I
S
T
O
L
S
T
30TH P
L
47TH PL
YO
U
N
G
F
I
E
L
D
S
E
R
V
I
C
E
R
D
34TH AVE
WR
I
G
H
T
S
T
BR
A
U
N
C
T
49TH PL
BA
L
S
A
M
S
T
TWILI
G
H
T
D
R
CO
D
Y
S
T
53RD AVE
ES
T
E
S
S
T
54TH LN
QU
A
I
L
S
T
51ST AVE50TH PL
47TH AVE
53RD AV
OA
K
S
T
46TH AVE
WA
R
D
C
T
44T
H
D
R
I76 OFF WB RAMP
IR
I
S
S
T
ROBB CIR
EV
E
R
E
T
T
S
T
GYDA DR
EA
T
O
N
S
T
MOR
N
I
N
G
S
I
D
E
D
R
ZE
P
H
Y
R
S
T
36TH PL
55TH D
R
AL
K
I
R
E
S
T
CO
O
R
S
S
T
OA
K
C
T
49TH AVE
VIVIAN
D
R
STATE HWY 58 FRONTAG
E
R
D
KE
N
D
A
L
L
S
T
I70 ON WB
R
A
M
P
51ST AV
CO58 ON WB RAMP
XE
N
O
N
S
T
50TH AV
38TH DR
LU
T
H
E
R
A
N
P
K
W
Y
VIV
I
A
N
S
T
NE
L
S
O
N
S
T
HO
W
E
L
L
S
T
GARDEN
R
D
UN
I
O
N
C
T
GA
R
L
A
N
D
S
T
LE
E
S
T
LE
E
C
I
R
I70
O
N
E
B
R
A
M
P
28TH P
L
HO
Y
T
S
T
I70
R
A
M
P
36TH AVE
37TH AVE
IN
D
E
P
E
N
D
E
N
C
E
S
T
KL
I
N
E
S
T
HO
Y
T
C
T
HO
L
M
A
N
S
T
YA
N
K
W
A
Y
39TH PL
ZE
P
H
Y
R
C
T
GLA
D
I
O
L
A
S
T
AR
B
U
T
U
S
S
T
SIM
M
S
C
T
31ST PL
MO
O
R
E
C
T
33RD AVE
BE
E
C
H
C
T
ZIN
N
I
A
S
T
PAR
F
E
T
D
R
ALL
I
S
O
N
C
T
FIE
L
D
S
T
FIELD
D
R
34TH PL
OW
E
N
S
S
T
MA
R
S
H
A
L
L
S
T
30TH DR
QU
A
Y
C
T
53RD PL
MIL
L
E
R
C
T
41ST PL
NO
L
A
N
S
T
MO
O
R
E
S
T
INSPIRATION P
O
I
N
T
D
R
I76 OFF EB RAMP
YU
K
O
N
C
T
LE
W
I
S
S
T
34TH DR
25TH LN
SH
E
R
I
D
A
N
B
L
V
D
46TH DR
CO
L
E
S
T
WR
I
G
H
T
C
T
TA
B
O
R
C
T
YA
R
R
O
W
C
T
45T
H
D
R
APP
L
E
W
O
O
D
K
N
O
L
L
S
D
R
31ST AVE
RE
E
D
C
T
RANGEVIE
W
D
R
GA
R
R
I
S
O
N
S
T
I70 OFF EB
R
A
M
P
I76 ON EB
R
A
M
P
30TH AVE
RO
U
T
T
S
T
42ND AVE
45TH PL
IN
D
E
P
E
N
D
E
N
C
E
C
T
JE
L
L
I
S
O
N
S
T
35TH PL
OA
K
D
R
SWADL
E
Y
D
R
37TH PL
FL
O
R
A
C
T
IS
A
B
E
L
L
S
T
NE
W
M
A
N
S
T
BR
E
N
T
W
O
O
D
S
T
51ST PL YA
N
K
C
T
GR
A
Y
S
T
I76 ON WB RAMP
STAT
E
H
W
Y
1
2
1
TA
F
T
S
T
IR
I
S
C
T
SIM
M
S
P
L
I70 OFF WB RAM
P
DA
W
N
C
T
FLO
W
E
R
S
T
33RD PL
VA
N
G
O
R
D
O
N
S
T
ROUTT CIR
EL
L
I
S
S
T
4
8
T
H
P
L
HO
Y
T
D
R
IN
G
A
L
L
S
S
T
EV
E
R
E
T
T
C
T
BE
R
R
Y
L
N
25TH AVE
VA
N
C
E
S
T
SIM
M
S
D
R
DE
P
E
W
C
T
32ND DR
LAKESIDE LN
I76 ON EB RAM
P
IN
G
A
L
L
S
C
T
TABOR
D
R
I70-I76 ON EB RAMP
CO58 EB OFF TO I70 WB ON RAMP
HIGHLAND PL
JO
H
N
S
O
N
S
T
FLO
R
A
S
T
SW
A
D
L
E
Y
S
T
ZA
N
G
S
T
BE
L
L
C
T
52ND PL
AL
K
I
R
E
C
T
GA
R
D
E
N
I
A
S
T
40TH AVE
MELROS
E
D
R
SA
U
L
S
B
U
R
Y
C
T
40th AVE
ZIN
N
I
A
C
T
AM
M
O
N
S
S
T
ZE
P
H
Y
R
D
R
FIG
C
T
55TH PL
CA
R
R
C
T
CO
D
Y
C
T
YO
U
N
G
F
I
E
L
D
W
A
Y
ES
T
E
S
C
R
ES
T
E
S
C
T
NELS
O
N
D
R
27TH LN
39TH AVE
PRIVATE
25TH PL
EVERETT D
R
DEF
R
A
M
E
R
D
PIE
R
S
O
N
S
T
LY
N
N
D
R
EB
I
7
0
O
F
F
T
O
C
O
5
8
W
B
O
N
R
A
M
P
WE
B
S
T
E
R
S
T
ALLEY
OT
I
S
C
T
FIE
L
D
C
T
TE
L
L
E
R
C
T
UN
I
O
N
W
Y
WARD D
R
48TH CIR
DEF
R
A
M
E
S
T
DO
V
E
R
C
T
GR
A
Y
C
T
JO
Y
C
E
W
A
Y
JE
L
L
I
S
O
N
C
T
CLEAR C
R
E
E
K
D
R
OW
E
N
S
C
T
NE
W
C
O
M
B
E
S
T
SA
N
D
R
A
W
Y
VIV
I
A
N
C
T
O H
A
Y
R
E
C
T
FRA
N
C
E
S
P
L
HOW
E
L
L
R
D
CIR
C
L
E
D
R
UR
B
A
N
S
T
HO
L
L
A
N
D
D
R
FIE
L
D
C
R
55TH LN
43RD PL
PIE
R
S
O
N
W
A
Y
QU
E
E
N
S
T
HO
L
L
A
N
D
C
T
WADSWORTH OFF RAM
P
F
R
M
I
7
0
-
I
7
6
R
P
FLO
W
E
R
C
T
THREE ACRE LN
FAIRVIEW LN
49TH CIR
EL
L
I
S
L
N
CRABAPPLE PL
AM
M
O
N
S
C
T
COLE CIR
JO
Y
C
E
S
T
YO
U
N
G
F
I
E
L
D
C
T
30TH LN
FLO
R
A
L
N
ZAN
G
W
A
Y
I70
O
N
S
B
R
A
M
P
QU
A
I
L
C
T
WILLOW LN
FL
O
W
E
R
C
R
PIE
R
S
O
N
C
T
UP
H
A
M
C
T
UR
B
A
N
C
T
ECHO DR
NE
W
L
A
N
D
C
T
U
N
I
O
N
C
R
MIL
L
E
R
W
A
Y
46TH CIR
IS
A
B
E
L
L
C
T
FE
N
T
O
N
C
T
53RD LN
RO
L
F
E
C
T
ALLISON CI
R
NEL
S
O
N
C
T
AMES
W
A
Y
VIVI
A
N
C
R
DU
D
L
E
Y
C
T
BE
R
R
Y
T
U
R
N
BE
R
R
Y
C
I
R
HA
R
L
A
N
C
T
I70 FRONTAGE RD
BE
N
T
O
N
S
T
SH
E
R
I
D
A
N
B
L
V
D
KE
N
D
A
L
L
S
T
IN
G
A
L
L
S
S
T
GR
A
Y
S
T
IS
A
B
E
L
L
S
T
ALLEY
OT
I
S
C
T
34TH DR
48TH PL
HO
W
E
L
L
R
D
JE
L
L
I
S
O
N
S
T
28TH AVE
28TH AVE
JO
Y
C
E
S
T
33RD AVE
QU
A
Y
S
T
I70 EB HWY
IN
G
A
L
L
S
S
T
VA
N
C
E
S
T
47TH PL
IN
G
A
L
L
S
S
T
NE
L
S
O
N
S
T
25TH PL
TAB
O
R
S
T
34TH P
L
TA
B
O
R
C
T
51ST AVE
OA
K
S
T
PA
R
F
E
T
S
T
BR
A
U
N
C
T
WR
I
G
H
T
S
T
34TH AVE
50TH AVE
MIL
L
E
R
S
T
ZIN
N
I
A
C
T
LA
M
A
R
S
T
45TH AVE
PIE
R
S
O
N
S
T
47TH AVE
QU
A
I
L
S
T
RE
E
D
S
T
52ND AVE
33RD PL
31ST AVE
TA
B
O
R
S
T
PA
R
F
E
T
S
T
27TH AVE
46TH AV
E
IR
I
S
S
T
28TH AVE
32ND PL
25TH PL
DO
V
E
R
S
T
JA
Y
S
T
NE
W
L
A
N
D
S
T
37TH PL
SW
A
D
L
E
Y
S
T
WR
I
G
H
T
C
T
25
T
H
P
L
36TH AVE
NE
W
L
A
N
D
S
T
PIE
R
C
E
S
T
31ST AVE
CA
R
R
S
T
36TH AVE
MO
O
R
E
S
T
UP
H
A
M
S
T
42ND AVE
GA
R
R
I
S
O
N
S
T
RE
E
D
S
T
MA
R
S
H
A
L
L
S
T
BR
E
N
T
W
O
O
D
S
T
RE
E
D
S
T
32ND DR
UP
H
A
M
S
T
FL
O
R
A
C
T
ES
T
E
S
S
T
34TH PL
IN
D
I
A
N
A
S
T
45TH PL
50TH AVE
ROB
B
S
T
QU
A
Y
S
T
LA
M
A
R
S
T
28TH PL
36TH AVE
YA
R
R
O
W
S
T
53RD AV
VA
N
C
E
S
T
MO
O
R
E
S
T
GA
R
L
A
N
D
S
T
31ST AVE
34TH PL
RO
U
T
T
S
T
41ST AVE
27TH AVE
HO
W
E
L
L
S
T
HO
L
L
A
N
D
S
T
EA
T
O
N
S
T
44TH PL
31ST AVE
ES
T
E
S
S
T
OA
K
S
T
OW
E
N
S
S
T
GR
A
Y
S
T
37TH PL
51ST AVE
HO
W
E
L
L
R
D
HO
Y
T
C
T
31ST AVE
OT
I
S
S
T
TA
F
T
C
T
WR
I
G
H
T
S
T
49TH PL
I70 FRONTAGE RD
32ND PL
CA
R
R
S
T
YA
R
R
O
W
C
T
45TH AVE
29TH PL
45TH AVE
33RD AVE
IN
D
E
P
E
N
D
E
N
C
E
C
T
51ST AVE
OT
I
S
S
T
HO
Y
T
S
T
37TH AVE
QU
A
I
L
S
T
UP
H
A
M
S
T
BR
A
U
N
C
T
I76 OFF WB RA
M
P
MO
O
R
E
S
T
32ND PL
IN
G
A
L
L
S
S
T
34TH PL
CO
D
Y
S
T
34TH AVE
SH
E
R
I
D
A
N
B
L
V
D
29TH AVE
I70 OFF WB RAMP
32ND DR
42ND AVE
AL
L
I
S
O
N
S
T
50TH AVE
34TH AVE
53RD AVE
FL
O
R
A
S
T
25TH AVE
I70 OFF EB RAMP
I70 EB
H
W
Y
25TH AVE
51ST AV
44TH PL
JAY
S
T
I70 ON W
B
R
A
M
P
CH
A
S
E
S
T
EA
T
O
N
S
T
AR
B
U
T
U
S
S
T
47TH AVE
27T
H
A
V
E
AM
M
O
N
S
S
T
31
S
T
P
L
I70 ON WB R
A
M
P
29TH PL
MIL
L
E
R
C
T
VA
N
C
E
S
T
WA
D
S
W
O
R
T
H
B
L
V
D
MO
O
R
E
C
T
YO
U
N
G
F
I
E
L
D
S
T
MIL
L
E
R
S
T
BRAUN RD
46TH PL
49TH PL
GR
A
Y
S
T
CH
A
S
E
S
T
34TH PL
48TH AVE
RE
E
D
S
T
42ND AVE
51ST AV
FE
N
T
O
N
S
T
ES
T
E
S
S
T
SW
A
D
L
E
Y
S
T
53RD AVE
QU
A
I
L
S
T
HO
Y
T
S
T
EV
E
R
E
T
T
S
T
LA
M
A
R
S
T
RIDGE RD
49TH AVE
UR
B
A
N
S
T
54TH AVE
QU
A
Y
S
T
46TH AVE
35TH AVE
54TH AVE
25TH PL
FL
O
W
E
R
S
T
41ST AVE
HO
Y
T
S
T
27TH AVE
MI
L
L
E
R
S
T
31ST AVE
39TH AVE
UN
I
O
N
S
T
VIV
I
A
N
S
T
42ND AVE
54TH AVE
OW
E
N
S
S
T
CO
D
Y
C
T
IN
G
A
L
L
S
C
T
43RD AVE
FL
O
W
E
R
S
T
30TH AVE
39TH AVE
OA
K
S
T
HA
R
L
A
N
S
T
54TH AVE
46TH PL
50TH AVE
48TH AVE
OT
I
S
S
T
27TH AVE
JA
Y
S
T
RO
B
B
S
T
37TH AVE
BE
N
T
O
N
S
T
HO
Y
T
C
T
28TH AVE
34TH PL
54TH AVE
40TH AVE
OT
I
S
S
T
47TH PL
RE
E
D
C
T
49TH AVE
EV
E
R
E
T
T
S
T
GA
R
R
I
S
O
N
S
T
40TH AVE
VA
N
G
O
R
D
O
N
S
T
OA
K
S
T
I70 WB HWY
CLEA
R
C
R
E
E
K
D
R
HO
L
L
A
N
D
S
T
UP
H
A
M
S
T
EV
E
R
E
T
T
C
T
51ST AV
XE
N
O
N
S
T
GA
R
L
A
N
D
S
T
37TH PL
52ND AVE
IN
D
E
P
E
N
D
E
N
C
E
S
T
WE
B
S
T
E
R
S
T
31ST PL
35TH AVE
40TH AVE
47TH AVE
AR
B
U
T
U
S
S
T
ROU
T
T
S
T
WE
B
S
T
E
R
S
T
30TH AVE
RE
E
D
S
T
FI
G
S
T
KL
I
N
E
S
T
46TH AVE
I70 FRONTAGE RD
32ND PL
35TH AVE
39TH PL
53RD PL
YA
R
R
O
W
S
T
53RD PL
30TH AVE
OA
K
S
T
MA
R
S
H
A
L
L
S
T
EV
E
R
E
T
T
S
T
I70 RAMP
UN
I
O
N
C
T
MA
R
S
H
A
L
L
S
T
ZIN
N
I
A
C
T
BA
L
S
A
M
S
T
DE
P
E
W
S
T
39TH AVE
KE
N
D
A
L
L
S
T
49TH AVE
I70 OFF EB RAMP
WR
I
G
H
T
C
T
54TH PL
PIE
R
S
O
N
S
T
JA
Y
S
T
TA
F
T
C
T
YU
K
O
N
C
T
31ST AVE
NE
L
S
O
N
S
T
30TH AVE
SIM
M
S
S
T
JA
Y
S
T
IR
I
S
S
T
35TH PL
39TH AVE
51ST PL
45TH AVE
45TH AVE
JO
H
N
S
O
N
S
T
39TH AVE
FE
N
T
O
N
S
T
51ST PL
GL
A
D
I
O
L
A
S
T
36TH PL
35TH AVE
54TH AV
43RD AVE
JE
L
L
I
S
O
N
S
T
NE
L
S
O
N
S
T
51ST PL
53RD PL
49TH AVE
KE
N
D
A
L
L
S
T
GA
R
D
E
N
I
A
S
T
CA
R
R
S
T
BA
L
S
A
M
S
T
I70 WB HWY
IN
G
A
L
L
S
S
T
47TH AVE
NE
W
L
A
N
D
S
T
DU
D
L
E
Y
S
T
31ST PL
AM
M
O
N
S
S
T
40TH AVE
VIV
I
A
N
S
T
I7
0
O
N
E
B
R
A
M
P
GA
R
L
A
N
D
S
T
DE
F
R
A
M
E
R
D
OT
I
S
S
T
39TH PL
30TH PL
43RD AVE
53RD AV
44TH PL
32ND PL
37TH AVE
DO
V
E
R
S
T
30TH
P
L
53RD PL
OA
K
S
T
I70 ON EB RAMP
36TH PL
48TH PL
49TH PL
HO
L
M
A
N
S
T
EA
T
O
N
S
T
45TH PL
BR
E
N
T
W
O
O
D
S
T
IS
A
B
E
L
L
S
T
SIM
M
S
C
T
RO
B
B
S
T
QU
A
Y
S
T
RO
U
T
T
S
T
DO
V
E
R
S
T
TE
L
L
E
R
S
T
CO
D
Y
S
T
30TH PL
50TH AVE
35TH AVE
CA
R
R
S
T
53RD AV
GA
R
L
A
N
D
S
T
UP
H
A
M
S
T
IR
I
S
C
T
40TH AVE
WA
R
D
R
D
RIDGE RD
GA
R
R
I
S
O
N
S
T
31ST AVE 31ST AVE
54TH AV
45TH AVE
45TH PL
29TH PL
46TH AVE
SA
U
L
S
B
U
R
Y
S
T
QU
A
Y
S
T
30TH AVE
47TH AVE
MA
R
S
H
A
L
L
S
T
EA
T
O
N
S
T
HA
R
L
A
N
S
T
LA
M
A
R
S
T
QU
A
Y
S
T
53R
D
A
V
E
53RD AV
I7
0
O
F
F
W
B
R
A
M
P
PIE
R
C
E
S
T
29TH AVE
53RD AV
XE
N
O
N
S
T
EV
E
R
E
T
T
S
T
QU
A
I
L
S
T
OA
K
S
T
41ST AVE
54TH AV
44TH PL
39TH AVE
30TH PL
ZIN
N
I
A
S
T
GR
A
Y
S
T
GA
R
L
A
N
D
S
T
CO
D
Y
S
T
RO
U
T
T
S
T
51ST PL
MIL
L
E
R
S
T
SIM
M
S
S
T
FIE
L
D
S
T
53RD PL
VA
N
C
E
S
T
47TH AVE
ALK
I
R
E
S
T
BA
L
S
A
M
S
T
VA
N
C
E
S
T
54TH PL
39TH AVE
36TH AVE
46TH AVE
26TH AVE
UP
H
A
M
S
T
BE
E
C
H
S
T
46TH AVE
54TH PL
33RD PL 34TH AVE
MIL
L
E
R
S
T
37TH AVE
45TH AVE
WR
I
G
H
T
S
T
LA
M
A
R
S
T
JA
Y
S
T
37TH PL
28TH PL
DE
P
E
W
S
T
MO
O
R
E
S
T
30TH AVE
I70 ON WB RAMP
50TH AVE
48TH AVE
HO
L
L
A
N
D
S
T
JAY
S
T
LA
M
A
R
S
T
53RD
A
V
33RD AVE
ES
T
E
S
S
T
LE
E
S
T
45TH PL
36TH AVE
QU
A
Y
S
T
JO
H
N
S
O
N
S
T
VA
N
C
E
S
T
41ST AVE
AM
E
S
S
T
TA
B
O
R
S
T
29TH AVE
38TH PL
FIE
L
D
S
T
54TH DR
HO
Y
T
S
T
GARLAND ST
34TH AVE
PA
R
F
E
T
S
T
OT
I
S
S
T
29TH AVE
36TH AVE
53RD PL
45TH PL
46TH AVE
49TH AVE
46TH PL
OW
E
N
S
S
T
DU
D
L
E
Y
S
T
33RD AVE
IN
D
E
P
E
N
D
E
N
C
E
S
T
AL
K
I
R
E
S
T
GA
R
R
I
S
O
N
S
T
KE
N
D
A
L
L
S
T
30TH PL
DA
W
N
C
T
SIM
M
S
S
T
31ST AVE
42ND AVE
BE
N
T
O
N
S
T
48TH AVE
37TH PL
JE
L
L
I
S
O
N
S
T
VIVIAN ST
FL
O
R
A
S
T
IR
I
S
S
T
I70
O
F
F
W
B
R
A
M
P
AM
M
O
N
S
C
T
OA
K
S
T
48TH AVE
IN
G
A
L
L
S
S
T
DU
D
L
E
Y
S
T
32ND PL
NE
W
L
A
N
D
S
T
ZIN
N
I
A
S
T
44TH PL
50TH AVE
IR
I
S
C
T
35TH PL
51ST AVE
33RD AVE
PA
R
F
E
T
S
T
EV
E
R
E
T
T
S
T
EVERETT DR
ZA
N
G
S
T
FI
E
L
D
S
T
NE
W
C
O
M
B
E
S
T
47TH AVE
33RD AVE
IN
G
A
L
L
S
S
T
HO
Y
T
C
T
29TH AVE
SW
A
D
L
E
Y
S
T
GR
A
Y
S
T
CA
R
R
S
T
EL
L
I
S
S
T
IN
G
A
L
L
S
S
T
54TH PL
YA
R
R
O
W
S
T
MO
O
R
E
C
T
48TH AVE
29TH AVE
47TH PL
ES
T
E
S
S
T
BA
L
S
A
M
S
T
ISA
B
E
L
L
S
T
EL
D
R
I
D
G
E
S
T
49TH AVE
IR
I
S
S
T
42ND AVE
35TH AVE
46TH PL
YA
R
R
O
W
S
T
QU
A
I
L
S
T
41ST AVE
30TH AVE
ZAN
G
S
T
3095000
3095000
3100000
3100000
3105000
3105000
3110000
3110000
3115000
3115000
3120000
3120000
3125000
3125000
17
0
0
0
0
0
17
0
0
0
0
0
17
0
5
0
0
0
17
0
5
0
0
0
17
1
0
0
0
0
17
1
0
0
0
0
17
1
5
0
0
0
17
1
5
0
0
0
City of Wheat Ridge, Colorado7500 West 29th AvenueWheat Ridge, CO 80033-8001303.234.5900
Winter Snow Plow Map Coordinate System:NAD 1983 HARN StatePlane Colorado Central FIPS 0502 FeetProjection: Lambert Conformal ConicDatum: North American 1983 HARN
Revised date: 11/5/2013/FY2013.111
Snow Route
Local Roads/Other
Priority 1
Priority 2
Priority 3
Arvada
Lakewood
CDOTMunicipal Boundaries
Arvada
Edgewater
Jefferson County
Lakeside
Lakewood
Mountain View
Wheat Ridge
%&'(70%&'(70
%&'(70
Æþ58
%&'(76
¯
Scale: 1"=2000'2,000 0 2,0001,000 1,000 Feet
ATTACHMENT 2
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is responsible for clearing sidewalks?
Residents are responsible for clearing their driveways as well as sidewalks adjacent to
their property. It is recommended that snow from driveways and sidewalks be placed in
their front yards and not in the street. It is illegal to push snow from parking lots on
commercial properties into the city’s streets.
After the storm, the plow came through and plowed my driveway shut again.
Depending on the severity of the storm, cleanup/widening operations often take place
within one to four days following the storm. It is necessary to widen an available
roadway to ensure the ice and snow melts off the driven surface as quickly as possible.
Failure to do so will result in ice/snow packed roads too narrow to accommodate storage
of snow from subsequent storms, and will prevent proper drainage, resulting in
increased ice problems.
What if I have an emergency and my street isn't plowed?
If an emergency situation occurs, call 911. Equipment will be diverted for emergencies
ONLY WHEN REQUESTED BY AN EMERGENCY SERVICE AGENCY. Police/Fire dispatch
has constant communications with our staff during storm conditions. It is a crime to make
a false emergency request.
How do I know if my street will be plowed?
Please go to the city’s new interactive city map to see where the plows are working. You
can also type in your address to determine if your street will be plowed and how quickly
the plows might be there.
Snow Plow Tracking Map | Wheat Ridge, CO - Official Website
How can citizens help?
•Drive with caution and anticipate delays. Don't drive unless you must.
•Be patient, it is impossible to clear all roads immediately.
•Do not attempt to stop a snowplow or obstruct its path. Plows must maintain
speed for maximum efficiency.
•Equipment operators often work long hours under trying conditions. They
anticipate courteous and friendly drivers. Please help them to help you.
•DO NOT push or shovel snow into the street. It is illegal to place snow from
private drives or parking lots onto the public right-of-way.
•Drivers do their best to not cover sidewalks with snow, but sometimes it is
impossible to avoid.
ATTACHMENT 3