Editorial: Toronto’s Snow Clearing Plan Isn’t Fair

The city’s plan for dealing with snow and ice on sidewalks this winter doesn't address past problems and won't meet the needs of residents, say critics.

1 minute read

November 5, 2019, 2:00 PM PST

By Camille Fink


Winter Storm

ArtistryInLight / Shutterstock

Local officials do not have plans to clear snow on enough sidewalks in the old city of Toronto, writes the editorial board of The Star. "Back in February, when streets and sidewalks were clogged by one of the worst winters in memory, Mayor John Tory called on city staff to review their approach to clearing snow."

However, the plan for this year is woefully inadequate, argues the editorial board. Only about 18 percent of central city sidewalks will be cleared, and the most heavily used sidewalks will not be given priority status. "Where’s the urgency after last winter’s hand-wringing over the record number of complaints about icy sidewalks that made it treacherous for many people to leave their homes for weeks on end?"

The haphazard snow removal plan does not make sense, leaving some residents with access to safe, walkable sidewalks and others facing treacherous conditions. "If that all sounds a little like doing nothing, it’s because it is," adds the editorial board.

Sunday, October 20, 2019 in The Star

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Close-up of park ranger in green jacket and khaki hat looking out at Bryce Canyon National Park red rock formations.

National Parks Layoffs Will Cause Communities to Lose Billions

Thousands of essential park workers were laid off this week, just before the busy spring break season.

February 18, 2025 - National Parks Traveler

Paved walking path next to canal in The Woodlands, Texas with office buildings in background.

Retro-silient?: America’s First “Eco-burb,” The Woodlands Turns 50

A master-planned community north of Houston offers lessons on green infrastructure and resilient design, but falls short of its founder’s lofty affordability and walkability goals.

February 19, 2025 - Greg Flisram

Small rural USPS post office in manufactured one-story grey building with American flag in front.

Delivering for America Plan Will Downgrade Mail Service in at Least 49.5 Percent of Zip Codes

Republican and Democrat lawmakers criticize the plan for its disproportionate negative impact on rural communities.

February 12, 2025 - Cowboy State Daily

Chicago

Test News Post 1

This is a summary

April 8 - 2TheAdvocate.com

test alt text

Test News Headline 46

Test for the image on the front page.

March 5 - Cleantech blog

Military humvee driving through gate at Fort Indiantown Gap Natl Guard training center in Pennsylvania surrounded by winter trees and dead leaves.

Balancing Bombs and Butterflies: How the National Guard Protects a Rare Species

The National Guard at Fort Indiantown Gap uses GIS technology and land management strategies to balance military training with conservation efforts, ensuring the survival of the rare eastern regal fritillary butterfly.

February 24 - Esri Blog