The primary objectives of the city’s ice and snow control program are to provide at least two safe routes to each residential area (or hill) by sanding and plowing primary access routes and to keep the main vehicular routes to WSU clear.

The secondary objective is to clear all other streets in the following order: primary collectors, paved streets, cul-de-sacs, unpaved streets, paved alleys, unpaved alleys.
The factors considered in prioritizing the sanding/plowing route selections are:
1. Arterial streets
2. Transit routes
3. Streets with high traffic volume
4. Steep streets which have a high potential for accidents

Maintenance and Operations Superintendent Art Garro advises Pullman residents that, in an effort to help prevent ice buildup, the application of de-icer is triggered when there is heavy frost, black ice and light snow.  Snow plowing is initiated when snow begins to accumulate.  Crews begin sanding for traction purposes when it is apparent that all of the accumulated snow cannot be cleared.  As time and conditions allow, plows will return and widen streets as far as possible.

To keep snowplows from pushing shoveled snow back across your driveway, shovel it to the right-hand side when you are facing the street. This should help keep your driveway clear under average conditions.

To avoid accidents under icy or snowy conditions, drive slowly, with caution and allow plenty of stopping distance. Motorists are strongly urged to use the main roads listed here to reach their destinations whenever snow or ice conditions exist.