SE Kansas City News

The City of Independence has outlined a comprehensive plan for snow removal across its 1,400 lane miles of road network. This plan is divided into three stages, each focusing on different types of streets to ensure efficient snow clearing.

The initial stage prioritizes roadways that experience the highest traffic volume. Once these are clear, crews move to secondary streets that connect priority routes to residential areas. The final stage addresses residential streets, including cul-de-sacs and dead-ends.

Municipal Services staff closely monitor weather conditions and prepare equipment in anticipation of winter storms. Streets may be pre-treated as needed, with crews dispatched to priority routes as soon as freezing rain, sleet, or snow begins. Crews remain on these routes until all lanes are plowed and treated.

Secondary streets are cleared once priority routes are passable. Although some snow might remain on these roads, they will be treated until they can be safely navigated. Depending on the storm's severity, it usually takes 12 to 24 hours after snowfall ends to complete treatment or plowing of all routes. Adverse conditions such as high winds or further precipitation can extend this timeframe.

Residential street clearing involves a single pass by the plows. Residents are advised not to park on the street when snow is expected; if necessary, vehicles should be parked strategically along designated sides of the streets.

During winter storm events, snow removal shifts operate around the clock with crews working in alternating 12-hour shifts throughout the week and during weekends and holidays.

For any concerns regarding snow removal, residents can contact the SNOW Line at 816-325-SNOW (7669). It's important to note that certain roads within Independence fall under the maintenance jurisdiction of the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT), including I-70 and M-291 Hwy among others.

Updates about winter storm progress can be found through social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter/X, and NextDoor. Additionally, MoDOT offers resources for residents on how best to manage driveway clearance during snowfall.

Residents should also report potholes caused by freeze-thaw cycles via the Action Center or call the Pothole Hotline at 325-7624 for repair scheduling.