Coon Rapids Mobilizes Full Snow Response as Winter Storm Warning Takes Effect

Coon Rapids, MN - The City of Coon Rapids has activated a full snow response ahead of a significant winter storm forecast to drop four to six inches of snow across Anoka County. The announcement, issued Tuesday, December 9, aligns closely with the National Weather Service Winter Storm Warning in effect through Wednesday morning, December 10, for the Twin Cities metro area.

The storm system, typical of fast-moving Alberta Clippers common to Minnesota, is expected to intensify overnight. National Weather Service projections have consistently placed expected snowfall totals between four and seven inches for communities under the warning, a range that meets the threshold for a full municipal plowing operation. Forecasters caution that the timing of this system may create challenging travel conditions during both the Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning commutes.

Plowing Begins at 3 A.M. Across the City

In accordance with its established Snow and Ice Control Policy, the City of Coon Rapids will begin a full plow at 3 a.m. on Wednesday, December 10, a schedule chosen to minimize disruption while ensuring streets are cleared before peak travel hours.

City policy calls for full plowing whenever three inches or more of snow have accumulated or when Public Works officials deem it necessary. A full plow involves clearing all City-maintained roads from curb to curb. This comprehensive approach ensures maximum road width for residents, school transportation, commercial access, and emergency vehicles.

Crews will follow the city’s priority plowing system:
Arterial Routes: Major thoroughfares and emergency access corridors are cleared first.
School and Business Routes: Streets serving schools, commercial areas, and employment centers are next.
Residential Streets: Low volume neighborhood streets follow once higher priority routes are addressed.

A full citywide plow requires several hours to complete. Many streets will receive multiple passes, and certain areas, particularly cul de sacs, require specialized equipment and additional time.

Sidewalks and Trails to Be Cleared Within 48 Hours

Following road clearance, crews will turn their attention to public sidewalks and pedestrian pathways. City policy requires that all City-maintained sidewalks and trails be cleared within 48 hours of significant snowfall. This timeline allows Public Works teams to complete road clearing before shifting equipment and personnel to pedestrian infrastructure.

Parking Restrictions Apply Throughout the Winter

The city is urging residents to comply with its winter parking restrictions to support efficient snow removal. Two citywide parking rules are in effect from November 1 through April 1:

Overnight Parking Ban: No parking is permitted on any city street between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m.
Snow Accumulation Rule: No parking is allowed at any time when three inches or more of snow have accumulated or are forecast until streets have been fully plowed from curb to curb.

Vehicles left on the street during plowing operations can slow down or block snow removal. They also risk being cited or towed under City Code.

Keep Obstacles Off the Streets

City officials are also reminding residents to remove garbage bins, trailers, portable basketball hoops, and other items from roadways. Obstructions prevent snowplows from clearing the full width of the street and may result in damaged equipment, reduced access for emergency vehicles, or incomplete snow removal. Items that block plows fall under City Code provisions that prohibit obstructing public rights of way and may be subject to citation or removal at the owner’s expense.

Safety First as Storm Moves In

Residents are encouraged to plan for slower travel, maintain safe speeds, and give plow operators ample room to work. The City of Coon Rapids emphasizes that patience and cooperation from the public are essential to efficient snow removal and community safety during winter storms.

City officials will continue monitoring weather developments and will issue further updates as needed.

MinneapoliMedia