City Sidewalks Shoveled Under New Public Works Effort

If the sidewalks in Highland Park seemed more walkable than during most snow aftermaths on Tuesday, a new city initiative is to thank.

According to City Manager Ghida S. Neukirch, the city began an effort this winter to assure all city sidewalks are shoveled whenever four inches or more of snow accumulates.

“I think it’s an important measure for us to be considering safety concerns and providing an advantageous service to the community to have someone else take care of the shoveling when there is an excessive amount of snow,” said Neukrich, who credited Highland Park Mayor Nancy R. Rotering with the idea.

The snow that came Monday night marked the first time the public shoveling occurred under the new idea.

“It’s another example of the exemplary service the city provides to the public,” Neukrich added.

The city’s Public Works department oversees the shoveling effort through a contractor - S.E. Snow & Ice Control, Inc., Neukrich said.