Feb. 28, 2014 – With yet another measurable snowfall possible over the weekend, residents are urged to be prepared should the snow emergency rules be implemented.
The Village has specific rules that govern parking when it snows to ensure streets can be properly plowed. When a snow emergency is declared by the Public Works Department, all parking is prohibited on main streets posted as snow routes. Parking on other streets is restricted to one side from 8 a.m. until 10 p.m. in residential areas and from midnight to 8 a.m. in designated commercial districts, the side determined by the odd/even date.
For the most up-to-date information on snow-related parking restrictions call 708.358.7669 (SNOW) for a recorded message. Messages will be posted to Oak Park's Facebook page and Twitter feed as well. Cable television subscribers can tune into VOP-TV, broadcast on Comcast channel 6 and AT&T channel 99. Click here for answers to the most requently asked questions about the snow emergency parking rules.
Motorists are urged to use caution, since the Village initially will salt only main roads and intersections. As the Village continues to respond to the season’s record-breaking number of snowstorms, salt supplies are being used at a much faster pace and crews have had to change their strategy for treating roadways. For residents, this means clear main roads and intersections, but the potential for packed snow on residential side streets. Click here to read more about the current salting strategy.
Sidewalk shoveling required
Village ordinance requires property owners to remove snow and ice from the public sidewalk within 24 hours following any snow, sleet or freezing rain. Being a good neighbor is important, too, so property owners are urged to help those who may need help clearing a sidewalk. For more information on the shoveling requirement or help resources, call 708.358.5700 or e-mail publicworks@oakpark.us.
Warming centers open
Warming centers are available to anyone who needs relief from the cold. Centers are located at can visit a local warming center, including Village Hall, 123 Madison St. Village Hall is open from 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. West Suburban Medical Center, 3 Erie Court, is open from 5:30 a.m. – 8:30 p.m., and Rush Oak Park Hospital, 520 S. Maple Ave., is open from 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Both hospitals are open seven days a week and hours may be extended when weather conditions warrant. To find out if the warming center is open after hours, call West Suburban Hospital at 708.383.6200, Rush Oak Park Hospital at 708.660.2211 or Village Hall at 708.383.6400. If transportation is needed, call the Oak Park Police Department’s non-emergency number 708.386.3800.