THUNDER BAY – The city says significant ice build-up overnight has led to the temporary suspension of many municipal services and closure of a number of facilities.
In a release issued on Thursday morning, city officials say they are trying to stay one step ahead of the freezing rain storm and the havoc it left behind.
“Our crews have been working very hard throughout the night to manage icy conditions on city roads and sidewalks,” city manager Norm Gale said in a statement.
“We continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada and are urging residents to take extra care if they must go out.”
First and foremost, garbage collection remains on hold while weather conditions are re-evaluated.
The city on Wednesday suspended pick-up, pushing it back 24 hours. An update is expected shortly.
Road sanders spent the night on the streets and their work will continue throughout Thursday. Road and sidewalk operation began at 2 a.m. for arterial and collector streets.
Residents are being urged to stay away from downed power lines and ice-covered tree limbs that could break under added weight.
Several trees have already come down and Gale said city staff and contract crews are working hard to remove the hazards and keep streets and sidewalks safe.
All city-operated daycares are closed on Thursday, though several services and facilities will remain open, including Thunder Bay Transit.
Also remaining open:
• Recycling collection
• Household Hazardous Waste & Recycling Depot
• Solid Waste & Recycling Facility
• Canada Games Complex, Volunteer and Churchill pools at 8 a.m.
• City hall and administration offices
• Sanding of main arterial roads, side streets and sidewalks
