Councilors Challenge Indy's Snow Plan

Councilors Challenge Indy’s Snow Plan

The DPW told WIBC that 13 trucks were in maintenance when the snowstorm dropped nearly nine inches.

Source: WISH-TV / WISH-TV

INDIANAPOLIS — Frustration is growing over the city’s snow removal efforts following January’s storm. At a Public Works Committee meeting Thursday night, Councilor Jared Evans called the response “the worst I’ve seen,” with many pointing to unplowed residential streets as a major concern.

The Department of Public Works (DPW) explained that their focus was clearing major roads and that they opted not to hire contractors for residential areas to prevent property damage.

Councilor Jesse Brown criticized Interim DPW Director Sam Beres, saying, “I’ve got constituents who’ve said their children slipped and hurt themselves on ice while waiting for the school bus. I feel like you’re not listening and are disconnected from what people are experiencing.” He added, “This isn’t on you. This is on Mayor Hogsett.”

AFSCME Local 725 President Steven Quick, Sr. defended snowplow drivers, urging councilors to join them on a ride-along. “They’ve been working 12-hour shifts since January 1 to clear over 11 inches of snow,” Quick said. “They’re away from their families, and they drive the same roads as everyone else.”

Evans also questioned the 2020 change to the city’s snow removal policy, which shifted from the “six-inch” rule to prioritizing “connector streets.” “Why change the six-inch rule?” Evans asked. “What’s the threshold? Is it 12 inches? You could’ve changed the policy for connector streets without touching the six-inch rule.”

The DPW told WIBC that 13 trucks were in maintenance when the snowstorm dropped nearly nine inches. They had planned to have 70 trucks ready.

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