Barrie crews continue round-the-clock cleanup after first major winter blast

A snow plow clears a road following a major dumping of snowfall in Barrie, Ont. (CTV News/Steve Mansbridge)

City crews in Barrie have been diligently working to tackle the initial wave of a multi-day winter storm that struck the region on Friday morning. Plows, sanders, and sidewalk machines have been deployed throughout the community in a coordinated effort.

According to Dave Friary, the city’s director of operations, a few streets couldn’t be completed Saturday due to parked vehicles, but a full plow run is scheduled in the evening to clear any areas that were missed.

Residents are being reminded that the overnight parking ban is now in effect, and vehicles must be kept off the road to ensure crews can do a complete and safe cleanup. Here’s where things stand as of Sat., Nov. 29:

Priority, residential roads, and sidewalks

Contracted crews have continued plowing and salting major routes. City crews say the work remains ongoing as heavy snow and persistent cold keep conditions active.

Staff began plowing and sanding neighbourhood streets at 10 p.m. Friday night, and that work is still underway. With accumulations across the city, residential clearing remains a focus.

Priority sidewalk routes have been plowed and sanded, while secondary sidewalk equipment was deployed at 4 a.m. Both operations are still in progress to keep pedestrian areas accessible.

Downtown, parking lots, and bridge decks

Parking lots were tackled by city staff starting at 2:30 a.m., and contractors were sent out at 3 a.m. to address bridge decks. These key areas continue to be cleared and treated for ice.

City officials say they will keep a close watch on conditions and adjust operations as needed throughout the day. Residents can expect ongoing activity from plows and maintenance crews as Barrie works to tackle the winter blast.

Friary says he encourages residents to check the plow tracker if they are wondering if their street has been dealt with.

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