Frequently Asked Snow Questions

            As an ongoing effort to provide the best possible snow removal service to its residents, the Alsip Public Works offers answers to these most commonly asked questions.

Q:        Why does it take so long to remove snow from our streets?

A:         We are proud that the average response time to clear village streets from a snowfall of four to six inches only takes about 12 hours. However, heavy wet snows, harsh blowing winds, sub-zero temperatures, and vehicle traffic may complicate snow removal efforts and cause delays. We utilize all of the equipment and manpower available to remove snow, but must also maintain the many other village services we provide.

Q:        Why do I always see snow plows on other streets before I see them on mine?

A:         Arterial and collector streets in the village carry higher volumes of traffic. The chance for accidents on these roads is greater, therefore demanding our first attention. Also, it is important for our crews to maintain consistent plowing patterns, as our manpower and equipment resources dictate following a specific plan. In order to cover all areas of the village as efficiently as possible, this consistency is necessary to evaluate and update our snow program for future storms. 

Q:        Why is there a difference in the snow removal efforts on certain streets?

A:         Some streets, such as 127^th Street and Cicero Avenue, are maintained by the State of Illinois. Other streets may be maintained by the Cook County Highway Department or the Worth Township Highway Department. Any questions pertaining to road jurisdiction should be directed to the Public Works Department.

Q:        Why does it seem that the snow plows arrive just after I finish shoveling my driveway?

A:         This question is probably one of the most commonly asked questions by our residents. Unfortunately there is no easy answer. To resolve this situation, we ask that homeowners wait until the snow plows have made their final passes along the curb line (usually their fifth or sixth pass down a street). Standard operating procedure requires the snow plow route driver to open the center of the road first. If you can not wait until the driver returns for the curb line, you may have to remove some snow from the end of your driveway. On average, it takes about five hours after the storm ends before a driver can return to do the curb line.  

Q:        Why was my car plowed in?

A:         Village ordinance prohibits parking on Village streets during snow cleanup operations. Our drivers will not avoid plowing streets with illegally parked vehicles. These vehicles risk not only being ticketed and towed, but also being plowed in. Illegally parked vehicles are the number one handicap cited by our snow plow drivers. They create hazards and reduce the effectiveness of our program.

Q:        How can I help and what are my responsibilities as an Alsip homeowner? 

A:         Your patience and cooperation are the most important factors in helping us do our job. Please do not push snow from driveways and sidewalks back into the roadway as it is illegal to place any foreign substance, such as snow, ice or dirt, upon the public thoroughfare. Promptly remove vehicles from village streets at the start of a snow fall. Illegally parked vehicles delay snow removal operations and are subject to ticketing and towing. Keeps the area leading to your mailbox clear of snow and place garbage cans behind the curb on garbage collection day. If you have a fire hydrant in front of your home, please help to keep it visible. Report hydrants hidden by snow. Your cooperation with these requests is appreciated and will greatly reduce complications and delays.