Snow Problem for Durango

It's that time of year again, snow-covered roads and incoming snowstorms. Take note of snow routes and know what to do during heavy snowfall. For families of students in Durango School District 9-R, don't forget to read up on how snow days are decided and how to make sure you don't miss that information. And although summer feels a while off, Southwest Conservation Corps is looking for people to volunteer to provide affordable housing for its summer program. You're watching the "Local News Roundup," brought to you by The Payroll Department and Dunkin' Donuts. I'm Gillian Arnwine. With a few more weeks ahead of winter weather, make sure to pay attention to marked snow routes and know what to do to keep roads safe during snowy weather. Durango snowplows are responsible for 164 lane miles of roads in seven zones across the city, with a strict priority system, especially during heavy snowstorms. First priority is major roadways and access to fire stations, hospitals, and other emergency facilities. Second priority is collector streets and school bus routes, followed by residential streets and cul-de-sacs. Last priority is alleys, which often are plowed after main streets have been completely cleared. You can help keep the streets accessible by staying home and off the roads when possible during heavy snowfall. Keep sidewalks and adjoining properties clear of snow and ice. It may be annoying when snow plows push snow into your freshly-shoveled driveway, but the plows' primary responsibility is to clear the roads. The city advises waiting until after plows have gone through to shovel driveways and other access points, if possible. During snowfall that amounts to more than two inches of snow, snow routes will be in effect, meaning cars parked along marked snow routes will be towed to ensure easy access for plowing. Be aware of snow routes and avoid them when possible when they are in effect. Ever wondered how exactly snow days are decided? For Durango School District 9-R, the process begins as early as 4:00 AM on the morning after a heavy snowfall night, with the Office of Emergency Management coordinating with CDOT, LPEA and city and county officials to determine public safety. Between 4:00 and 5:00 AM, school staff and administrators who are traveling into schools and town report on road conditions, and by 5:30 AM, superintendent and district safety officials will decide whether to keep schools open, have a delayed start, or if school will be canceled for the day. Any information about delays or cancellations will be distributed on the district and school websites, social media, simultaneous text, call and email to all emergency contacts listed in Infinite Campus and local radio stations and television stations to prepare for a potential snowy day. Make sure to check the weather forecast regularly. If it looks like there will be heavy snowfall overnight, prepare your vehicles, driveways, and access roads the night before and plan extra time in the morning to account for winter road conditions. Make sure to have plans for your students in the event of a snow day. If your students take the bus, be aware that the buses may be delayed as drivers take extra care on roads. And make sure all students are wearing appropriate winter clothing. Check out the Snow Day Facts at the school district's website for more information on how snow days are decided and other frequently-asked questions. Southwest Conservation Corps is looking for community members to support their seasonal members by providing low to no-cost housing. Currently, their highest need is in the Durango area, but hosts can be located anywhere within one hour of Hesperus. In 2022, over 50% of Corps members camped or lived out of their cars during their off days. While some members prefer this, the organization would like to offer more options for affordable housing. To host a Corps member, SCC asks that a secure, private space be provided for the Corps member to sleep and store personal items, a private or shared bathroom and shower, kitchen access and space to store food, and parking for the member's vehicle close to or on the property. Both Corps members and hosts will be asked to sign an agreement committing to joint codes of conduct for the duration of the stay. Learn more about hosting needs and other ways to support SCC's work online. Learn more about these and other stories online at durangolocal.news. Thank you for watching this edition of the "Local News Roundup," I'm Gillian Arnwine.