All residents urged to use off-street parking, where possible

Newark, DE - Based on the current forecast from the National Weather Service, the City of Newark has declared a Snow Emergency effective 12 a.m. Saturday, January 23, 2016. In order to keep Snow Emergency Routes clear for Public Works plow crews, residents and businesses on snow emergency routes must remove all vehicles to avoid being towed.

"This is the first significant weather event of the year and is likely to have a substantial impact on our community," said City Manager Carol Houck. "We urge residents to take this storm seriously and prepare accordingly. Neighbors are encouraged to check on the elderly and bring outdoor pets inside during the duration of the storm."

Due to predicted snowfall in excess of 8", the City has instituted a category 4 winter storm response, which will require full crews for multiple shifts with an initial focus on keeping primary roads passable for emergency access, eventually moving onto secondary roads as the storm subsides. Residents and businesses are reminded that sidewalks must be clear of snow or ice 24 hours after the City declares the storm has ended. Citations will be issued for non-compliance.

"Current forecasts show a snow event beginning around rush hour this evening, with heavy snow falling through the night and 3 - 7 inches expected by Saturday morning with an additional 10 - 17 inches before the storm subsides," said Public Works and Water Resource Director Tom Coleman. "The primary focus of our plow crews will be to ensure the safe passage of emergency vehicles, so in addition to requiring vehicles be removed from snow emergency routes, we are asking all residents to use off-street parking, if possible."

Arrangements have been made with the University of Delaware to allow those impacted by the snow emergency to park their vehicles at the Trabant garage at the end of Main Street (across from Deer Park Tavern) beginning at 8 p.m. tonight.

Information on the Snow and Ice Control Plan, Snow Plow Routes, Snow Emergency Routes, the most current National Weather Service Forecasts, and general winter storm information can be found at www.cityofnewarkde.us/snow. Updates will also be posted to TV22 and the City's Facebook and Twitter accounts.