Students at the University of St. Thomas are used to Minnesota winters, but this cold season in particular has been a difficult one, especially for students who live off campus.
Minnesota has experienced multiple heavy snowfalls this year, which can make some roads difficult to drive on. Over 50 inches of snow has piled onto the Twin Cities since Nov. 29. City snow plows typically plow streets with more traffic and other emergency routes to and from hospitals and fire stations, leaving side streets a last priority.
“It has been a really tough winter for everyone. We’ve had record snowfall already, and there’s still plenty of winter left to come.” St. Paul Public Works representative, Lisa Hiebert said.
The weather left many side streets in St. Paul left in bad shape due to snow runoff creating cracks in the road or potholes. This can be frustrating to commuting students who live on those streets, whether they walk or drive to school.
“[The streets are] pretty icy, because nobody salts them.” Claire Mitchell, a junior who lives off campus, said. “It just seems like the city doesn’t care unless the street is on the emergency route.”
Despite this, Hiebert has faith in the ability of student commuters. “I think the streets are drivable. I think people need to remember to be very careful when they’re driving on the side streets, nice and slow, and careful as they’re driving.” Hiebert said.
The snow emergency rules of the city of St. Paul aren’t designed to help the sidestreets, according to Hiebert. They’re meant to take care of the busier streets. It is nearly impossible for the city to get into the sidestreets for consistent plowing because of how many residents are parked there next to their residence.
Despite these challenges, Hiebert is confident that the city can overcome any blizzards or snow emergencies that may occur through the end of the season.
“We’ll keep working at it all winter, because that’s just what we do,” Hiebert said.
St. Thomas students and staff are encouraged to watch St. Paul’s snow emergency website
for further information and updates.
Karl Warner can be reached at warn5356@stthomas.edu