ANCHORAGE, Alaska - Anchorage Mayor Dave Bronson has declared a snow emergency in response to a record-breaking winter storm that has blanketed the city with 25.2 inches of snow since Sunday, far exceeding initial forecasts. The declaration, made on Thursday, allows for additional resources to be deployed to clear the streets and assist in snow removal efforts.

In anticipation of worsening weather conditions, Mayor Bronson, in coordination with the Anchorage School District, decided to authorize non-critical employees to stay home on Thursday. As a result, many city offices and operations remained closed, prioritizing safety and minimizing disruptions.

The primary objective of the snow emergency declaration is to expedite the clearing of residential streets. Due to the significant snow accumulation, maintenance crews have been compelled to circle back and re-plow major roads. However, the additional resources obtained through the emergency declaration will facilitate simultaneous clearing of residential areas. The mayor's office estimated that residential streets could be cleared by Friday evening at the earliest, considering the best-case scenario.

Mayor Bronson emphasized the urgent need for action, citing the potential for the wet snow and slush to freeze hard. Recognizing the challenges posed by this weather event, Justin Shelby, Administrative Operations Manager for the Department of Transportation and Public Facilities, confirmed that all available operators were actively engaged in road clearance efforts as of 4 p.m. Thursday. Priority 1 roads were reported to be open throughout Anchorage, with crews also working on widening lanes and addressing issues on priority 2 and 3 roads. However, ongoing snowfall requires crews to return to priority 1 roads to maintain accessibility.

Despite the dedication of these crews, patience and caution are advised by transportation officials. Paul VanLandingham, Street Maintenance Manager with the Municipality of Anchorage, assured residents that city crews would work tirelessly, day and night, until conditions improve. VanLandingham expressed hope that the neighborhoods would be fully plowed by Tuesday, provided the snowfall subsides, while arterial and collector roads would be addressed continuously.

Acknowledging the scale of the task ahead, VanLandingham noted that the city has allotted an 84-hour time window to complete the full plowout. He urged residents to stay home if possible, allowing for increased stopping distances and extra travel time for those who must venture out. Mayor Bronson highlighted the improved resources this winter compared to the previous one, including the hiring of more drivers and a ratio of two drivers per grader, the primary snow plowing equipment.

Despite the significant challenge posed by the record-breaking snowfall, Mayor Bronson expressed confidence in the ability of the city's crews to clear the streets. As the municipality and the state work together to tackle the snow emergency, residents are encouraged to stay informed, exercise caution, and support the ongoing snow removal efforts.

With the declared snow emergency and the commitment of dedicated personnel, Anchorage aims to restore normalcy to its snow-covered streets as quickly and safely as possible.