City crews continue to make progress on storm cleanup and recovery following December’s ice storm.
Due to the depth of snow on the ground covering fallen limbs, forestry crews continue to focus on recovery work in the tree canopy, rather than chipping brush.
Work on the city’s east side has advanced as far as access and narrow streets allow, and these areas will be revisited as access improves. Work continues throughout the city on a priority basis.
All high-traffic park areas and main community trails were cleared of hazards and blockages in February and are open to the public. Forestry crews continue to advance into secondary trails, as access is established. Before forestry work proceeds in off-road areas, snow is removed to enable access for trucks and equipment. Crews are currently working in Norm Jary Park.
The City’s storm-related forestry activities remain prioritized as per the following phases:
1. Remove highest-risk hazards: branches hanging over hydro wires, near critical facilities, or blocking roadways or driveways.
2. Address blocked sidewalks.
3. Clear community trails and high-traffic park areas.
4. Remove marked trees, clear boulevards and parks, and prune City trees.
5. Grind up remaining tree stumps and plant replacement trees.
Phase 1 and 2 of cleanup are complete.
Phase 3 is complete, with some areas such as secondary trails and lower-traffic park areas still requiring some work. It is anticipated Phase 4 will be wrapped up by late 2014. The timing of Phase 5 will be based on Phase 4 completion and is estimated to occur in spring 2015 at the earliest.
The City is asking for people’s patience and assistance during Guelph’s recovery from recent storms.
· Please be patient as City crews continue to clear branches and brush. Branches that are frozen in snow banks or buried in snow will be addressed after the snow melts.
· Report tree hazards to using the “How can we help you?” section on guelph.ca or call 519-837-5628 and include your name, contact information and the street address where the tree is located.
· Bring fallen branches and brush from private properties to the
Waste Resource Innovation Centre at 110 Dunlop Drive for free disposal.
· Even with recent progress in parks and on trails, continue to use caution in these areas.
· Please keep fire hydrants clear of snow.
· Help keep storm drains and sewer grates clear.