Syracuse Sun

Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh has issued a snow safety alert as the city braces for a lake-effect snowstorm expected to last from Thursday evening until Saturday morning. The warning comes as Syracuse faces heavy snowfall, with Mayor Walsh emphasizing the importance of adhering to parking regulations to aid in efficient street clearing.

"Syracuse is no stranger to winter’s challenges. While the forecast calls for localized lake-effect snow, we encourage residents to remain cautious and prepared," said Mayor Walsh. He noted that despite a regional salt shortage, the Department of Public Works has maintained an adequate supply to ensure road safety during the storm.

The City’s Snow Safety Alert advises drivers to prepare for hazardous conditions and reminds residents of odd-even parking regulations. Property owners are urged to clear sidewalks and areas around fire hydrants. Information on snow safety can be found at syr.gov/winter, where residents can also access a live Snow Plow Map and follow @SYRCityline on social media for real-time updates.

Plows will prioritize primary roads to maintain emergency access, focusing on high-volume routes and major destinations before addressing neighborhood streets. Collaboration between city, county, and state agencies will continue throughout Central New York.

Residents are encouraged to keep sidewalks clear during and after the storm to prevent pedestrians from walking in traffic lanes. The Syracuse Fire Department requests that a three-foot area around fire hydrants be cleared. The City's Sidewalk Snow Removal program will operate this year, but residents remain responsible for their sidewalks.

Alternate side parking rules should be observed, with off-street parking recommended where possible. Syracuse Police will enforce these rules by ticketing and towing illegally parked vehicles. Priority streets have been identified for focused enforcement based on factors like street width and multi-family dwellings.

Seasonal odd-even parking restrictions apply downtown with signage indicating changes and hours for alternate parking in specific blocks such as Erie Blvd., E. Water St., S. Warren St., Montgomery St., Madison St., E. Jefferson St., and W. Jefferson St.

Registered vehicle owners violating these restrictions risk ticketing and towing. For more information on downtown parking options or inquiries related to snow concerns, residents can contact Cityline via app or phone at 315-448-8360 or reach out through social media channels.

In emergencies, residents should call 9-1-1 immediately.