Winter in Saint John brings unique challenges for everyone. Whether you drive, walk, or take transit, navigating the snowy season requires careful planning. The City of Saint John Public Works team works year round to keep streets and sidewalks clear.

Source: City of Saint John

Planning Starts Before the Snow Falls

Preparation for winter operations begins immediately after the previous season ends. During the spring and summer months, the Public Works team reviews previous performance. They update response plans, repair aging equipment, and replenish essential materials like road salt.

Winter preparation intensifies in the fall. The team finalizes operational improvements, trains employees, and inspects equipment.

Responding to Winter Storms

Every storm response relies on constant monitoring. The city uses five local weather stations and traditional forecasting tools. When forecasters predict a storm, the team develops a targeted plan. They treat busy streets with a saltwater brine solution called Direct Liquid Application. This improves traction when snow begins to fall.

Once a storm arrives, emergency management principles guide the response. The team meets daily to assess weather and road conditions. They adjust staffing, measure performance, and plan public communications. Following the plowing phase, the city transitions into snow removal operations. This includes scheduling area wide parking bans and coordinating street level snow removal. Each storm ends with a full debrief to identify improvements.

External Audit and Public Tools

During the 2025 to 2026 winter season, an external audit of the city snow clearing operations is underway. This review brings added expertise and strengthens service delivery.

The city calculates a Storm Severity Rating on a scale up to 100 using Environment Canada data. This rating helps you understand service expectations. It considers total snowfall accumulation, types of precipitation, temperature fluctuations, and wind conditions. Higher severity scores indicate storms with a greater likelihood of impacting response times.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Direct Liquid Application?

Direct Liquid Application is a saltwater brine solution. The city applies it to busy streets before a storm to improve traction.

How does Saint John rate storm severity?

The city uses a scale up to 100 based on Environment Canada data. The score accounts for snowfall accumulation, precipitation type, temperature, and wind. Higher scores mean the storm will likely impact response times.

Where do I find information on parking bans?

You can find updates on parking bans and winter operations by visiting the official municipal website or calling the Customer Service Centre.