Indy Prepares for Weekend Winter Storm

INDIANAPOLIS — The Indianapolis Department of Public Works is mobilizing crews in anticipation of a winter storm expected to bring snowfall and frigid temperatures this weekend.

Starting at 11 p.m. Friday, Indy DPW/AFSCME Local #725 and Indianapolis Fleet Services/AFSCME Local #3131 crews will work rotating 12-hour shifts until at least Tuesday.

Priority roadways first

As the storm begins, the department will focus on priority one roadways, including thoroughfares, streets adjacent to hospitals and fire stations, and bridge overpasses. Snow command will monitor road conditions and snow accumulation to determine when to respond to priority two and three streets, as well as bike and trail infrastructure.

Trash routes affected

Due to the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday, some solid waste routes will be serviced on Saturday as part of the sliding schedule. Crews anticipate completing these routes without disruption.

Mayor urges caution

“We are cautioning residents that road conditions are expected to be hazardous on Sunday and asking community members to avoid unnecessary travel,” said Mayor Joe Hogsett. “The City and our partners have been preparing for this storm. And I extend my thanks to our AFSCME Local #725 and #3131 DPW crews and first responders who will be out in the frigid cold, doing all that they can to keep our neighbors safe and our roads clear.”

Safety tips for drivers

Residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel. Those who must drive should exercise caution, particularly on bridge overpasses, hills, or areas prone to slippery conditions. The department recommends:

• Leaving home with plenty of time to safely reach your destination
• Maintaining a safe following distance of at least three car lengths between vehicles and Indy DPW snowplows
• Carrying blankets, a small shovel, and a charged cell phone in case of emergencies

Stay informed

For more information on the storm and snow-clearing efforts, visit Indy.gov/snow or track progress using the Indy Snow Force Viewer. Indy DPW will provide updates via social media throughout this snow event.