City of Leavenworth announces expanded snow removal services

This winter, Leavenworth will expand its snow removal services to include residential sidewalks, a significant change for the city. The phased removal will prioritize safe routes to school and walkways adjacent to city-owned properties, ensuring accessibility for pedestrians. Once the initial phase is completed, the city plans to clear additional residential and multifamily sidewalks as staffing allows. This policy amendment, approved by the City Council in September, aims to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act and improve safety for all residents. Property owners in commercial zones remain responsible for clearing snow from sidewalks abutting their properties within 24 hours of a storm.

The city will initiate snow maintenance operations when snowfall reaches three inches or more, prioritizing emergency and collector street routes first. Following the 2025-2026 winter, the city plans to assess the policy's effectiveness and make necessary adjustments. This move marks a significant step towards enhancing pedestrian safety and accessibility in Leavenworth.