Walla Walla opens applications for snow berm reduction program

WALLA WALLA — The city of Walla Walla has opened applications for its annual Snow Berm Reduction Program, which assists residents with physical disabilities during winter plowing operations.

The program accommodates qualified residents who find it difficult to clear the heavy snow ridges left at driveway entrances by passing street plows. When traveling past eligible homes, plow operators reduce speed and adjust their blades to redirect snow downstream rather than piling it across the driveway.

To qualify for the program, applicants must submit a request form, proof of residence, and a copy of their Washington state disability parking privilege card. Applications are open through Oct. 1 to give city staff sufficient time to establish service routes ahead of the winter season.

Municipal officials noted that the targeted service is limited to eligible residents with disabilities to maintain operational efficiency. Preventing berms across all 8,500 driveways in Walla Walla would be prohibitively expensive and would impede crews from maintaining open access for emergency vehicles on major roadways.

Application forms and full program details are available online at http://wallawallawa.gov/snowberms

Hard copies in both English and Spanish can also be picked up at several community locations, including Walla Walla City Hall at 15 N. Third Ave., the Walla Walla Public Library temporary location at 115 W. Main St., the Walla Walla Senior Center at 720 Sprague St., and the City Service Center at 55 E. Moore St.

For residents that are ineligible for the program, but need help, the city maintains a directory of outside agencies and individuals who help.

Image courtesy city of Walla Walla

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Elkhorn Media Group