Campus Snow Removal Policies

As winter approaches, Utah State University Facilities reminds the campus community of the snow removal policies for the university.

Sidewalks are cleared when there is a half-inch of snow or more on the walks. If this occurs prior to 3 a.m., the USU Police Department calls out the Facilities sidewalk removal crews. The crews begin work at 4 a.m. and stay until paths are cleared throughout campus. Sidewalks and stairs with the highest pedestrian use are cleared first, with less-traveled and outlaying areas cleared later. As the walks and stairs are cleared of snow, they are treated with snow melt or magnesium chloride to prevent ice from forming.

 

Parking lots are cleared when there are 2 1/2-inches of snow or more on the lots. Again, USU Police Department calls out the Facilities parking lot crew at midnight and it stays until approximately 7 a.m. when the lots begin to fill with vehicles. Magnesium chloride is applied to the travel lanes and roadways to prevent ice from forming.

 

In case of an early morning storm, 3 a.m. or later, crews begin clearing as soon as they are called in. That means, during early morning storms, the primary walks, roads and parking lots will not be cleared as quickly, due to the time and number of pedestrians and motorists using the walks, roads and lots.

 

Safety for the pedestrian and motorist is the greatest concern during snow removal. Students, faculty and staff should be aware of and watch for equipment when walking and driving on campus. Sidewalk crews will pull to the side and stop work during class break times to protect pedestrians on the walks. During other times, they will be moving slowly as the walks are cleared. The campus community can help with safety and snow removal by watching for equipment and stepping to one side to allow more efficient operations.

 

Icy and slick spots can always be found around campus during and after a storm. Those who find such areas should contact Facilities Customer Service at 797-1947, and report the location. Crews will be sent to deal with problem areas.