With Alaska’s first significant snowfall of the 2024-2025 season approaching, Anchorage residents and business owners expressed their enduring commitment to snow. Anchorage experienced record-breaking snow in 2023-2024, leading to public criticism and heated debate over snow removal. Addressing these concerns became a key component of Mayor Suzanne LaFrance’s campaign, and her administration has allocated millions toward updating snow equipment in her first 100 days in office for Anchorage snowfall preparations
Crews from the Alaska Department of Transportation have been checking equipment and changing schedules before the winter season. JEFFCO Ground Maintenance, a private snow removal firm, takes a similar strategy. According to firm president Jeannie Schenderline, equipment maintenance is critical before tackling the season’s fast-paced difficulties. JEFFCO deployed plows to Palmer and Wasilla, showing their readiness to manage snowfall in the area.
Although the advent of this storm during the day may complicate things, Schenderline emphasized that plowing throughout the night helps keep roads clean by morning. Residents of Anchorage agreed with her, pointing out that snowfall timing is unpredictable and might interfere with everyday routines. Operators are under pressure to maintain parking lots’ accessibility, particularly during peak shopping hours, Schenderline continued.
Anchorage snowfall preparations are ongoing as residents prepare for the consequences, knowing that the first day might provide unique difficulties. One local, Max Romey, acknowledged that the first snowy day is always tricky, especially for people new to the area or who don’t have snow tires. He stated that staying alert can help prevent such accidents and that adjusting to snow conditions is essential. Although snow will always be a part of Alaskan life, Anchorage seems ready to face the weather this winter, thanks to lessons gained from previous seasons.
This news story was originally published by Alaska’s News Source.
