In the heart of winter, the City of Carmel emphasizes the urgent need for residents and business owners to maintain clear sidewalks. Carmel values its reputation as a walkable city, and to keep this tradition alive during the snowy season, a collective effort is necessary.
With the 'No-Bus Zones' in play since 2021, the number of students treading their way to school on foot, even amid snowfalls, has seen a significant increase. According to the City of Carmel's statement, it is pivotal, especially for those within a roughly one-mile radius of schools, to remember sidewalk maintenance is not just a courtesy but a safety measure.
The City takes care of plowing streets along with trails and pathways adjacent to these roadways as soon as possible after they've cleared them. However, for residential property owners, the task of snow and ice clearance from their sidewalks falls upon their shoulders, with a window of 72 hours after a major snow event. Businesses have until noon the next day post-snowfall to clear their respective sidewalks.
Clearing operations for trails and greenways, a task undertaken by the Carmel Clay Parks Department, commence soon after snow stops falling. However, it's worth noting that the Street Department does not clear the trails outside of the usual business hours and the work may stretch 2-3 days, depending on snow depth. Furthermore, in an effort to protect local flora, fauna and infrastructure, no salt is used on the trails by the Parks Department.
For inquiries around snow removal on sidewalks or to report unshoveled paths, Carmel residents can direct their questions to Code Enforcement at (317) 571-2491.
