Carbondale reminds property owners to clear sidewalks after winter weather

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

CARBONDALE, Ill., (KBSI) — The City of Carbondale is reminding property owners to clear snow and ice from sidewalks to help ensure public safety throughout the community.

City officials said sidewalk accessibility is especially important in areas with heavy pedestrian traffic, including routes used by students, transit riders, seniors and individuals with mobility needs.

Because of significant snowfall and recent extreme cold, the city provided a grace period beyond the standard 48-hour requirement outlined in city ordinance. However, officials said ongoing conditions now pose a public safety concern, and property owners are required to bring sidewalks into compliance immediately.

Property owners are required to clear sidewalks by the end of the day Monday, Feb. 2. The city said enforcement efforts will focus on areas with higher pedestrian activity and locations where accessible walkways are critical.

Under city ordinance, property owners are responsible for clearing a path at least 30 inches wide along the full length of sidewalks abutting their property. Snow, ice, sleet or freezing rain must typically be removed within 48 hours after precipitation ends. If removal is not possible due to hardened conditions, owners must apply sand or other abrasive materials and maintain the sidewalk in a reasonably safe condition until full removal can occur.

The city also reminded residents that piling snow from parking lots or driveways onto sidewalks or public roadways is prohibited. Snow and ice may not be deposited on sidewalks, roadways, fire hydrants or public transportation loading areas, except in limited circumstances related to roadway or sidewalk cleaning.

City officials thanked residents and property owners for their cooperation and encouraged them to review city guidelines to help maintain safe and accessible walkways.

For more information, residents may contact the Building and Neighborhood Services Office at 618-457-3237.