It’s early March as I write this, and folks in the Sak’s Woods Neighborhood have endured the snowiest winter in modern history…and we all know that it’s probably not finished yet. As tired as we all are of shoveling and snow-blowing and salting and sanding, I feel the need to vent some steam about the subject of Winter and Sidewalk Maintenance. I think that many people tend to focus on their own driveways and walkways to their homes, but forget about the public sidewalks on their property (and their responsibility to keep those sidewalks in a safe state for the many people who still walk). It has been especially frustrating to see sidewalks along Branch Street — especially right near and even in front of Sauk Trail Elementary School — that are (and have been for most of the winter) in a condition that can only be described as inexcusably dangerous. Keep in mind that if snow is not removed promptly, it soon gets trampled by walkers and compressed into an icy glacier that makes walking difficult and downright hazardous. I realize that we all have busy lives and family activities and whatnot, but beyond 24 hours after a significant snow event, your sidewalks really should be taken care of (in fact, a City of Middleton ordinance states as much: http://www.ci.middleton.wi.us/ordinances/middch8.pdf ). Also, don’t forget things like corner street crossing, Metro bus stops, and fire hydrants — they all need to be cleared of snow and ice as well!
I know that winter it tough on all of us (physically, mentally, and even financially), but I’d like to ask all Sak’s Woods residents to try a bit harder to be a good citizen and think of your friends, neighbors, dog walkers, and schoolchildren who use your public sidewalks on a daily basis — keep them cleared, and keep them safe! While it’s tempting to balk at the “high cost” of buying salt or sand for winter sidewalk maintenance, consider the cost of a fine from the City, or litigation from someone who slips and falls on your dangerously icy sidewalk (both are real possibilities).
Thank you…and here’s to the early arrival of Spring!
