The City of Edmonton has officially lifted its Phase 1 parking ban, a measure that was implemented to facilitate the clearing of significant snowfall from the city's primary roadways. The ban, which began on December 17, was terminated at 7 a.m. on December 22, allowing residents to resume parking along key travel corridors.
Ban Lifted on Major Roadways
With the conclusion of the initial phase, motorists can now legally park along arterial roads, collector roads, bus routes, and roads within business improvement areas. The city confirmed that the intensive efforts of road crews, who have been working around the clock, have created sufficient progress to safely end the restriction on these priority routes.
The decision marks a shift from emergency clearing to ongoing maintenance. City officials stated there are no immediate plans to enact a Phase 2 parking ban, which would target residential and industrial roads. Maintenance work, including the application of sand and other traction materials, continues across Edmonton's vast network of over 12,000 kilometres of roadways and 500 kilometres of active pathways.
Focus Shifts to School Zone Windrows
A new priority has emerged in the wake of the major route clearing: addressing snow windrows in school zones. The city is assessing conditions across its 634 school zones. Locations with large, obstructive windrows are scheduled for clean-up by heavy equipment between December 22 and January 4.
Temporary "no parking" signs will be posted in zones where this work is occurring, and parking will be prohibited until the clearing is complete. The city advises residents to watch for these signs to avoid tickets or towing.
Residents Encouraged to Report Issues
For ongoing concerns about road conditions or snow removal, Edmontonians are encouraged to contact the city via 311. The city emphasizes that crews remain deployed for continuous maintenance throughout the winter season to ensure safe travel for all.
