Meridian Joins Boise in Declaring State of Emergency

With the possibility of even more snow this weekend, Idaho's second largest city has declared a state of emergency.  

Meridian Mayor Tammy de Weerd declared a state of emergency Friday afternoon (Jan. 6, 2017) following updated weather reports calling for six to twelve inches of snow over the weekend.

“With more snowfall expected, I issued this declaration because it gives the City the ability to dedicate resources for contractors, equipment and manpower quickly in order to protect the health and safety of our community,” said Mayor Tammy.

The City has already hired a contractor to assist with clearing parking spots along Main Street in Downtown Meridian and emergency vehicle routes.  Now the City will look to hire more contractors with a focus on neighborhoods. The City will work with the Ada County Highway District (ACHD) to identify streets that haven’t been plowed and start there. The second priority will be neighborhood streets that have only been plowed on one side – especially those roads near schools. It is important that residents move their vehicles off of the streets, if possible.

Aside from hiring contractors, the City of Meridian is bringing all hands on deck to help the Ada County Highway District (ACHD) respond to this record setting winter storm. The City has light duty equipment for public pathways and parking areas, but it is not sufficient to assist with roads. The priorities are pathways near schools, fire hydrants and storm drains.

Multiple agencies met today with the Ada County Highway District (ACHD) including the City of Meridian. During the meeting it was discussed that based on updated weather reports, the concern over flooding is not as serious at this point. Still, ACHD provided a map of the priority storm drains that the City is focusing on ( ACHD Priority Storm Drains Map).

The City is also asking its residents to play a role. If you see a storm drain or fire hydrant that needs cleared, please do so. And a reminder that property owners are responsible for maintaining the sidewalks fronting their property. ACHD is asking property owners to shovel the snow into their yards rather than the street.

“The additional plowing in neighborhoods could create a snow berm at the end of driveways so residents will have to remember to keep their walkways and driveways free of snow by shoveling. I’m encouraged by the stories I’m hearing – whether it’s our City employees going above and beyond to help residents or neighbors helping neighbors – it is so important right now,” said Mayor Tammy.