Spokane orders cars off arterials, bus routes

The city of Spokane called a Stage 1 Snow Emergency today, requiring cars to be moved from all arterials and Spokane Transit Authority fixed bus routes within six hours, or by 6:30 this evening. Under the city’s snow removal plan, officials can call for such an emergency when at least 2 inches of snow is on the ground and four or more inches is in the forecast. A Stage 1 emergency doesn’t trigger plowing in the residential areas. City street officials say they are monitoring conditions day and night and will continue to make changes as needed. City crews are working on arterials again as snow continues to fall. This morning they “racked” the snow in downtown, creating berms in the middle of streets. Drivers should not attempt to cross the berms, as they may get their vehicles stuck. The city has 19 plows out working today. With warmer temperatures, the city also is using liquid de-icer to assist in snow removal. “Once again, we are activating part of our snow emergency plan to respond to changing weather and driving conditions,” Mayor Mary Verner said in a news release. “We appreciate the cooperation we have received this week from our citizens to keep our community moving.” To check the progress of city plows, go to the city’s website. Citizens also can call our Snow Removal Hotline at (509) 456-2666. When driving in these wintry conditions, the city asks motorists to slow down, be patient and drive according to the conditions. Don’t follow plows closely, and do not try to pass plow trucks.