FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
City of Pittsburgh Urges Caution Ahead of Weekend Snow Forecast
PITTSBURGH — The City of Pittsburgh’s Department of Public Works (DPW) is preparing for inclement weather and is taking action to ensure the safety of residents. Rain is expected to move into the region beginning Friday evening. Temperatures continue to drop throughout the night, with snow beginning to fall around 11:00 pm.
Due to the preceding rain before the snow, DPW cannot pre-treat the roads. However, DPW crews will start shifts at 10:00 p.m. Friday, in advance of the winter weather, and will be ready to treat and clear streets as soon as the snow falls. Crews will continue to work throughout Saturday into Sunday.
There will be approximately 40 trucks on overnight shifts and 70 trucks during the day. These figures include the new lease vehicles which will provide more reliable trucks to service city streets. However, these new trucks are not yet equipped with the technology to be active on the Snowplow Tracker, so residents are warned to not expect to see them appearing there.
DPW will continue to approach snow treatment in the traditional manner; however, crews will prioritize addressing the parade route in Downtown Pittsburgh in advance of Saturday's festivities. Additional crews will hand-clear steps, sidewalks, and bridges in the immediate parade vicinity, and will continue to work outwards to neighborhood routes from there.
"The Department of Public Works is excited to celebrate St. Patrick's Day with city residents. Given the forecasted conditions we urge people to be cautious and aware as they commute on local roads," said Department of Public Works Acting Director Chris Hornstein. "Use common sense and enjoy the celebration."
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