ANNEX B

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

RECOMMENDED MAINTENANCE QUALITY STANDARDS

FOR ROADS AND SIDEWALKS/PATHWAYS

 

 

 

 


 

Executive Summary

            Glossary

 

100.00 Roads, Sidewalks/Pathways

 

101.0                              Introduction

101.01    Roads and Sidewalks/Pathways

 

102.00             Routine Road Patrols

102.01    General Visual

 

103.00             Winter Maintenance

103.01        Snow and Ice Control- Roads

103.02        Snow and Ice Control- Sidewalks, Pathways and Bus Pads

103.03    Snow Removal

 

104.00             Road and Bridge Surfaces

104.01    Hard and Treated Surfaces

104.02        Gravel Surfaces

 

105.00             Roadsides

105.01        Sidewalks, Pathways and Bus Pads

105.02        Drainage

105.03        Street Furniture

105.04        Grass Cutting

105.05        Brushing

105.06        Naturalization

 

106.00             Cleanup (Right-of-Way)

106.01        Spring Cleanup

106.02        Street Cleaning

106.03        Collection of Litter Containers

106.04        Hazardous Items and Graffiti

106.05        Spills and Accident Cleanup

 

107.00             Safety and Traffic Control Devices

107.01        Signs

107.02        Pavement Markings

107.03        Guide Rails and Barriers

107.04        Noise Barriers and Fences

 

 


200.00 Parks, Sports Fields and Trees (not included in this document)

 

201.00             Introduction

201.01    Parks, Sports Fields and Trees

 

202.00             Inspections

202.01    General Visual

202.02    Play Structures

 

203.00             Turf Management

203.01    Mowing and Trimming

203.02    Naturalization

203.03    Brushing

203.04    Aeration

203.05    Fertilization

203.06    Topdressing and Overseeding

 

204.00             Remedial Repairs

204.01    Site Furniture and Fencing

204.02    Play Structures

204.03    Re-lamping of Light Standards

204.04        Turf

204.05        Drainage

 

205.00             Trees, Shrubs and Flower Beds

205.01    Newly Planted Trees

205.02    Tree Maintenance

205.03    Shrub Beds

205.04    Flower Beds

 

206.00             Cleanup (Parks and Sports Fields)

206.01    Spring Clean Up

206.02    Fall Clean Up

206.03    Collection of Litter Containers

206.04    Sand

206.05    Hazardous Items and Graffiti

 

207.00             Sports Fields

207.01    Infield Maintenance

207.02    Irrigation Systems

 


Intent

The intent of the Maintenance Quality Standards is to define the desirable level of service that the City will aim to achieve under normal conditions.  Equipment failures, unusual weather conditions and other factors may result in the City not achieving the standards.  However, where defined, the City will achieve the provincially legislated standards.

 

Objectives

The Maintenance Quality Standards have the following objectives:

 

Philosophy

The Maintenance Quality Standards have been written from a user’s perspective by defining the end result of maintenance services as much as possible as this is what impacts the users.  The standards provide the outcome of a service by defining the timing and extent of a particular maintenance activity and are defined by the overall objective (i.e. clean city, safe roads, passable sidewalks, etc.) giving the City a measurable outcome. 

 

The standards are not prescriptive in terms of how the services are delivered.  How services are delivered form part of an operations manual as delivery may evolve over time with changes in equipment, materials, innovation and technology.

 

Format

The standards are written with the following headings:

·        Outcome:                     defines the main outcome of the maintenance activity and is written from a users perspective.

·        Description:                  describes the intent and scope of the standard.

·        Standards:                    defines the outcome of the standard.

·        Service Level:               defines the frequency or response time to achieve the desired standard.

·        Related Standards:        defines other standards that provide related information.


Term

 

Definition

“Alligatoring”

means a pattern of cracks on pavement that are interconnected and form a series of small blocks resembling an alligator’s skin.

“Anti-Icing Method”

means a winter control method where ice control chemicals are applied to pavement just prior to or just after the start of a snow storm in order to provide a chemical layer that prevents bonding of snow to pavement.

“As Soon As Practicable”

means the period of time from being made aware of a problem until the time when action and repairs can be taken at the site of the problem.

“Bare Pavement Standard”

means a standard whereby the end result of winter control operations result in a full width bare pavement within a given time frame.

“Casting”

(of snow)

means the blowing, blading or other means of relocation of snowbanks onto public or private lands that are acceptable for the storage of snow for the duration of the winter season.

“Centre-Bare Standard”

means a standard whereby the end result of winter control operations result in a partially cleared pavement, from the centre of the roadway outwards, within a given time frame.

“Culvert”

means a structure designed to allow the passage of surface water in ditches or streams, or of livestock or pedestrians under a roadway or roadside entrance.

“De-Icing Method”

means a winter control method where ice control chemicals and abrasives are applied to pavement after plowing of snow has been carried out.

“Distortions”

means any deviations of a surface from its original shape.

“Ditch”

means an open facility constructed to carry water to an outlet.

“Hazard” 

means any object or condition that may represent a threat to the safety of cyclists, pedestrians or motorists.

“Icy Road”

 

means a portion or section of roadway surface that has been frozen through hoarfrost (“black ice”) action, freezing rain action or compacted snow and has formed a slippery surface that could be hazardous to the users.

“Icy Sidewalk or Pathway”

means a portion or section of sidewalk, pathway or pedestrian access surface that has been frozen through hoarfrost (“black ice”) action, freezing rain action or compacted snow and formed a slippery surface that could be hazardous to the users.

“Ironworks”

means the frames and covers or frames and grates of maintenance holes, catch basins, ditch inlets and culvert grates

“Made Aware Time”

means the clock time of day that a problem call is received by Surface Operations. This is the logged clock time that information calls from patrols, active operators or the public are received.

“Planned Maintenance”

means maintenance carried out on a planned or regular basis to ensure that roadway and structural components continue to function as far as practical to end of life.

“Ravelling”

 

means a progressive loss of pavement material from the surface downward, leaving a course texture or “pock marks” on the pavement surface.

“Response Time”

means the period of time from the point of being made aware until resources arrive at the site to carry out an operation or commence repairs to fix a problem.

“Rippling and Shoving”

means a regular wavy or “washboard” effect running across a road surface or an unevenness of the pavement because of movement of the surface mat.

“Roadway Patrolling”

means the process of driving each section of roadway at a determined frequency to monitor and report potential road hazards.

“Snow Accumulation”

means the natural accumulation of new fallen snow or wind-blown snow that covers more than half a lane-width of a roadway, sidewalk or pathway.

“Snowboards”

means sheet products installed along bridge parapet rails and pedestrian handrails for the purposes of preventing plowed snow and ice from falling below and for preventing the splashing of pedestrians respectively.

“Snow Clearing”

means the clearing of snow from the travelled surface of a roadway, bridge or sidewalk/pathway and does not include the complete removal of snow banks to disposal sites.

“Snow Disposal”

means the mechanical removal and dumping of snow at disposal sites that are acceptable for the storage of snow for the duration of the winter season.

“Snow Packed Standard”

means a standard whereby the end result of winter control operations result in a pavement with packed snow for a running surface.

“Washboarding”

means “rippling and shoring” where the texture of the road surface takes on that similar to a washboard.

“Wheel Track Rutting”

means dishing developed in the wheel tracks on a road surface.


Scope

This section (100 series) of the Maintenance Quality Standards applies to maintenance operations on roads, sidewalks and pathways.

 

The intent of the Maintenance Quality Standards is to define the desirable level of service.  For road maintenance services that are subject to Ontario Regulation 239/02, Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways, the intent is to aim for the desirable levels of service, but will not be less than the minimums as specified in the regulation.

 

Maintenance Classifications

Maintenance classifications are used to categorize roads, sidewalks/pathways of similar characteristics and function into similar classes.  These classes are used to prioritize the delivery of maintenance activities.  

 

Road Maintenance Classification

The Road Maintenance Classification is defined in two parts: primary class and a secondary class.  The primary class is derived using three (3) variables (functional classification, speed, and traffic volume) using a weighted averaging approach:

 

Functional Classification

Weighted Average = 20%

 

Posted Speed (km/h)

Weighted Average = 40%

 

Volume (AADT)

Weighted Average = 40%

Freeway                                      10

 

> 90                          10

 

> 10,000                        10

Urban Arterial                               7

 

90                              8

 

7,501 – 10,000                 9

Rural Arterial/Major Collector        5

 

80                              6

 

5,001 – 7,500                   8

Minor Collector/Residential             3

 

70                              5

 

2,001 – 5000                   6

Lane                                             1

 

60                              4

 

1,001 – 2000                  5

 

 

50                              2

 

501 – 1,000                     4

 

 

40                              2

 

100 – 500                        2

 

 

< 40                           2

 

< 100                              1

 

The Average Point Rating is calculated as follows:

 

Average Point Rating    = 20% (Functional Classification)

+ 40% (Posted Speed)

+ 40% (Volume)

 

The average point rating is used to determine the primary class as follows:


 

 

Primary Maintenance Class

Average Point Rating

1

Refer to Table 101.01.01

2

>6 – 8

3

>4 – 6

4

>3 – 4

5

0 – 3

 

The road maintenance classification also includes a secondary class of A, B and C.  The A and B secondary classes are used to further prioritize the delivery of maintenance, and C refers to gravel roads.  In general, a secondary class “A” is given to roads within Special Designated Areas (central business district, By-ward Market, Rockliffe Park Heritage district, primary employment centres, tourism areas), or with essential services (hospitals, fire stations, police stations, ambulance stations), schools, transit, steep grades/curves, or designated part of the City’s cycling route.

 

The road maintenance classification is defined in Table 101.01.01.

 

Sidewalk/Pathway Maintenance Classification

The sidewalk/pathway maintenance system is structured to reflect prioritization based on relative level of importance, level of utilization by pedestrians, cyclists and recreational users, access and mobility requirements, and availability of alternate pedestrian facilities.  The sidewalk/pathway maintenance classification system only includes a primary class and does not include a secondary class, as is the case with the road maintenance classification.  The sidewalk/pathway maintenance classification is defined in Table 101.01.02.


 

Table 101.01.01 – Road Maintenance Classification

 

Primary Class

Secondary Class

A

B

C

1

Highest Priority Roads

Freeways

(4-lane section of 174)

Transitway

N/A

2

Arterials

Roads within Special Designated Areas, or with Essential Services, Schools, Transit, Steep Grades, or with designated City cycling route, NCC Parkways

All other paved Class 2 roads

N/A

3

Major Collectors

Roads within Special Designated Areas, or with Essential Services, Schools, Transit, Steep Grades, or with designated City cycling route

All other paved Class 3 roads

N/A

4

Minor Collectors

Roads within Special Designated Areas, or with Essential Services, Schools, Transit, Steep Grades, or with designated City cycling route

All other paved Class 4 roads

Gravel roads

5

Residential Roads and Lanes

Residential and Subdivision Roads

Lanes

Gravel roads

Special Designated Areas                                

- Downtown business district, By-ward Market, Rockliffe Park Heritage district, primary employment centres, tourism areas

                                                               

Essential Services                                              

- Hospitals, Fire Stations, Police Stations, Ambulance Stations              

 


 

Table 101.01.02 – Sidewalk/Pathway Maintenance Classification

 

Sidewalk/Pathway Maintenance Classification

Sidewalk/Pathway Description

1

- downtown business district

- Byward Market

- special tourism areas

2

- downtown/urban residential neighbourhoods where sidewalks are only safe place to walk

- sidewalks in Villages

- pathways that serve as main community links or to access transit services

- sidewalks along roads with transit service, emergency facilities, public facilities or retail/commercial frontages

- pathways designated as part of City cycling routes

3

- sidewalks along rural and suburban residential roads

- paved pathways in rural and suburban neighbourhoods (pathways that are winter maintained)

4

- unpaved pathways and trails

- paved pathways that are not winter maintained

 

 


Outcome

The main outcome of routine road patrols is safe and passable roads by monitoring and reporting conditions that could pose a hazard to the users.

 

Description

Routine road patrols shall include the visual monitoring and reporting of the conditions listed below.  These are to be addressed in accordance with the provisions of each related standard:

 

Condition

Related Standard

Requirement of MMSMH*

snow accumulation and icy roads

103.01 Winter Maintenance – Snow and Ice Control- Roads

X

snow accumulation and icy sidewalks

103.02 Winter Maintenance – Snow and Ice Control- Sidewalks and Pathways

 

snow bank sightline obstructions at intersections

103.03 Winter Maintenance – Snow Removal

 

potholes, cracks, shoulder drop offs, surface discontinuities

104.01 Road Surfaces – Hard and Treated Surfaces

104.02 Road Surfaces – Gravel Surfaces

104.03 Road Surfaces - Bridge Surfaces

X

sidewalk defects

105.01 Roadsides – Sidewalks, Pathways and Bus Pads

 

washouts and flooding

105.02 Roadsides – Drainage

 

damaged street furniture

105.03 Roadsides – Street Furniture

 

Debris

106.01 Cleanup – Street Cleaning

106.02 Cleanup – Spills and Accident Cleanup

X

illegible, missing or improperly oriented regulatory and warning signs

107.01 Safety and Traffic Control Devices – Signs

X

faded pavement markings

107.02 Safety and Traffic Control Devices – Pavement markings

 

damaged guide rails and barriers

107.03 Safety and Traffic Control Devices – Guide Rails and Barriers

 

visual problems with traffic control signals and damaged streetlights

Refer to Traffic and Parking Operations Branch

X

* MMSMH = minimum maintenance standards for municipal highways

 

The standard for routine road patrols meets the provisions of Ontario Regulation 239/02, the “Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways”.  The patrols are for the purpose of identifying and reporting hazards and are not intended to be infrastructure or asset condition assessments.  These assessments are to be undertaken as a separate activity.

 

Road patrols also incorporate visual monitoring of cycling lanes and sidewalks located within the right-of-way as can be reasonably observed from a moving vehicle.

 

Road patrols shall also include minor cleanup activities such as the pick up of minor debris and small dead animals.  Temporary signage may need to be erected during road patrols where hazardous conditions exist and where these cannot be addressed during the patrol.  This is to be carried out in accordance with the provisions of the latest edition of the Ontario Traffic Manual.

 

Standard

Routine road patrols shall be documented.

 

Routine road patrols are to be carried out as follows in accordance with the frequency defined in Table 102.01:

·        driving all undivided roads in one direction to visually observe and report hazards based on the conditions specified above;

·        driving all divided roads in each direction to visually observe and report hazards based on the conditions specified above.

 

Additional patrols may be carried out subject to weather conditions.

 

Routine road patrols are to be carried out between sunrise and sunset.

 

Routine road patrols may be supplemented with the use of electronic devices such as Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) or Road Weather Information Systems (RWIS) instrumentation.

 

Service Level

The intent is to meet the frequency as defined in Table 102.01.01, but will not be less than the frequency prescribed by Ontario Regulation 239/02, Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways (also referenced in Table 102.02.01).

 

Related Standards

201.01  INSPECTIONS – General Visual


 

 

 

Table 102.01.01 - Road Patrol Frequency

 

Road Maintenance Class

Road Type

Frequency

(Minimum as per MMSMH)

1

A, B

Highest Priority Roads

4 times per week

(3 times per week)

2

A, B

Most Arterials

3 times per week

(2-3 times per week)

3

A, B, C

Most Major Collectors

Once per week

(Once per week)

4

A, B, C

Most Minor Collectors

Once per 2 weeks

(Once per 2 weeks)

5

A, C

Residential Roads and Lanes

Once per month

(Once per month)

B

(Not defined)

Notes:    - Refer to Table 101.01.01 for description of road maintenance classes.

- MMSMH refers to Ontario Regulation 239/02, Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways.

 

 


Outcome

The main outcome of snow and ice control of roads is safe and passable roads by reducing the hazards caused by snow and ice accumulation on the road surface.

 

Description

This standard applies to winter snow and ice control operations on all City roads, including adjacent shoulders and bicycle lanes where designated as City cycling routes.  The standard meets the provisions of Ontario Regulation 239/02, the “Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Roads”.

 

This standard does not apply to shoulders or parking lanes adjacent to roads unless these form part of the designated City cycling routes.  Snow and ice control for the foregoing items shall be considered as winter cleanup and carried out separately.  Winter cleanup is to be carried out as soon as resources permit and only after the work detailed herein has been completed.

 

Snow and ice control operations can be carried out 24/7 subject to weather conditions and in a manner that will enable the City to achieve this standard with available resources.

 

Under extreme winter storm conditions (i.e. those that exceed normal conditions), snow and ice control operations will be carried out based on the capacity of resources in as continuous a manner as practicable, consistent with the classes of roads as detailed in Table 103.01.01.

 

Standard

Bare Pavement, Centre-Bare and Snow Packed treatment standards are used for various classes of roadway as defined in Tables 103.01.01. 

 

-         Bare Pavement: requires that snow and ice be controlled, cleared and/or prevented for the full travelled road pavement width, including flush medians of 2 m width or less, paved shoulders and/or adjacent cycling lanes. It does not include parking lanes.

 

-         Centre-Bare: requires that snow and ice be controlled, cleared and/or prevented in a strip down the middle of the road pavement width for a minimum width of 2.5 m on each side of centreline.

 

-         Snow-Packed: requires that snow and ice be cleared and that ruts and/or potholes that may cause poor vehicle control be levelled off.  Abrasive or deicing materials are applied at intersections, hills and sharp curves.

 

 


Service Level

For treating icy roads, resources are to be deployed as soon as practicable after becoming aware of the icy conditions.  Icy roads are to be treated within the times defined in Table 103.01.01 after becoming aware of the icy conditions.   

 

For snow clearing, resources are to be deployed and snow clearing completed as defined in Table 103.01.01.  If the depth of snow accumulation is less than the minimum for deployment, then resources may be deployed subject to road conditions resulting from previous snow accumulations or from forecasted weather conditions.

 

Snow and ice control operations will not exceed the conditions prescribed by Ontario Regulation 239/02, Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways.

 

Related Standards

102.01 ROUTINE ROAD PATROLS – General Visual

103.02 WINTER MAINTENANCE – Snow and Ice Control- Sidewalks and Pathways

103.03 WINTER MAINTENANCE – Snow Removal

 

 

Table 103.01.01 – Snow and Ice Control on Roads

 

Road Maintenance

Class

Road

Type

Minimum Depth of Snow Accumulation for Deployment of Resources

(Depth as per MMSMH)

Time to Clear Snow Accumulation From the End of Snow Accumulation

or Time to Treat Icy Conditions

(Time as per MMSMH)

Treatment Standard

Bare Pavement

Centre Bare

Snow Packed

1

A

High Priority Roads

As accumulation begins

(2.5-8 cm depending on class)

2 h (3-4 h)

Ö

 

 

B

Ö

 

 

2

A

Most Arterials

3 h (3-6 h)

Ö

 

 

B

Ö

 

 

3

A

Most Major Collectors

4 h (8-12 h)

Ö

 

 

B

Ö

 

 

4

A

Most Minor Collectors

5 cm (8 cm)

6 h (12-16 h)

Ö

 

 

B

 

Ö

 

C

 

 

Ö

5

A, C

Residential Roads and Lanes

7 cm (10 cm)

10 h (16-24 h)

 

 

Ö

B

10 cm (not defined)

16 h (not defined)

 

 

Ö

Notes:    - Refer to Table 101.01.01 for description of road maintenance classes.

- MMSMH refers to Ontario Regulation 239/02, Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways.

 


Outcome

The main outcome of snow and ice control of sidewalks, pathways and bus pads is safe and passable facilities for all users by reducing the hazards caused by snow and ice accumulation.

 

Description

This standard applies to winter snow and ice control operations for City-owned sidewalks, pathways, bus stops and pedestrian malls designated for winter usage.

 

Snow and ice control operations can be carried out 24/7 subject to weather conditions and in a manner that will enable the City to achieve this standard with available resources.

 

Under extreme winter storm conditions (i.e. those that exceed normal conditions), snow and ice control operations will be carried out based on the capacity of resources in as continuous a manner as practicable, consistent with the classes of sidewalks and pathways as detailed in Table 103.02.01.

 

Standard

Bare Surface and Snow Packed treatment standards are used for various classes of sidewalks and pathways as defined in Tables 103.02.01.

 

-         Bare Surface: requires that snow and ice be controlled, cleared and/or prevented for the full travelled width.

 

-         Snow-Packed: requires that snow and ice be cleared and that ruts be levelled off.

 

During weather periods subject to freeze-thaw cycles, the City will monitor the conditions of sidewalks and pathways and provide spot application of abrasives or deicing materials.

 

Service Level

For treating icy sidewalks and pathways, resources are to be deployed as soon as practicable after becoming aware of the icy conditions.  Icy sidewalks and pathways are to be treated within the times defined in Table 103.02.01 after becoming aware of the icy conditions.   

 

For snow clearing, resources are to be deployed and snow clearing completed as defined in Table 103.02.01.  If the depth of snow accumulation is less than the minimum for deployment, then resources may be deployed subject to sidewalk and pathway conditions resulting from previous snow accumulations or from forecasted weather conditions.

 

Bus stops located along City roads are to be cleared within 24 hours after the snow accumulation has ended.

 

Windrows across sidewalks at intersections and at pedestrian crossings that are left after road plowing operations are to be removed within 16 hours after the end of the storm.

 

Related Standards

102.01 ROUTINE ROAD PATROLS – General Visual

103.02 WINTER MAINTENANCE – Snow and Ice Control- Sidewalks and Pathways

103.03 WINTER MAINTENANCE – Snow Removal

106.02  CLEANUP – Spring Cleanup

 

 

Table 103.02.01 – Snow and Ice Control on Sidewalks and Pathways

 

Sidewalk/ Pathway Maintenance Classification

Minimum Depth of Snow Accumulation for Deployment of Resources

Time to Clear  Snow Accumulation From the End of Snow Accumulation or Time to Treat Icy Conditions

Treatment Standard

Bare Surface

Snow Packed

1

·         Downtown business district

·         Byward Market

·         large employment centres

·         special tourism areas

2.5 cm

4 h

Ö

 

2

·         downtown/urban residential neighbourhoods where sidewalks are only safe place to walk

·         sidewalks in Villages

·         pathways that serve as main community links or to access transit services

·         sidewalks along roads with transit service, emergency facilities, public facilities or retail/commercial frontages

·         pathways designated as part of City cycling routes

5 cm

12 h

Sidewalks directly adjacent to arterial roads

All other locations

3

·         sidewalks along rural and suburban collector and residential roads

·         paved pathways in rural and suburban neighbourhoods (pathways that are winter maintained)

5 cm

16 h

 

Ö

4

·         unpaved pathways and trails

·         paved pathways that are not winter maintained

Not winter maintained

 

 


Outcome

The main outcome of snow removal is safe and passable roads and sidewalks for all users by reducing the hazards caused by snow banks that restrict access or visibility.

 

Description

Removal or reduction of snow banks will be carried out at the following locations when snow banks restrict sightlines, travel widths, pedestrian and cycling traffic or to relieve trap water on the roadway or sidewalks:

 

Snow removal operations can be carried out 24/7 subject to weather conditions and in a manner that will enable the City to achieve this standard while maximizing available resources.  Until a further review is completed, this only applies to municipalities where this was the practice prior to amalgamation.

 

Standard

Casting or Winging Back, Pulling and Removal treatment methods are to be considered in the following order for various classes of roadway:

 

 

 

 

In residential areas, snow can be stockpiled in boulevard space where there are no houses fronting and where it does not create a safety hazard, and in cul-de-sacs as long as a minimum distance of 3.5 m is maintained between the bottom of the snow bank and the snow stored in the centre of the cul-de-sac.

 


Service Level

Snow banks are to be pushed to maximize the availability of on-site snow storage capacity.  Snow removal is to begin as soon as practicable after the end of the storm and after being made aware that snow banks/windrows are greater than the conditions detailed in Table 103.03.01.

 

Snow banks restricting sightlines (i.e. safety hazard) at intersections and at pedestrian, school and railway crossings are to be removed within 24 hours after being made aware of the conditions.  In the event the number of locations exceed available resources, then locations will be addressed on a priority basis subject to the extent of the hazard.

 

Related Standards

102.01  ROUTINE ROAD PATROLS – General Visual

103.01  WINTER MAINTENANCE – Snow and Ice Control- Roads

103.02  WINTER MAINTENANCE – Snow and Ice Control- Sidewalks and Pathways

106.02  CLEANUP – Spring Cleanup (Right-of-Way)

 


 

 

Table 103.03.01 – Snow Removal

 

Road Maintenance Class

Road Type

Minimum Cleared Width

Time

1

A

High Priority Roads

No encroachment onto travel lanes

16 hours

B

2 days

2

A, B

Most Arterials

Encroachment not to reduce width of any travel lane less than 3.3 m.

·         Where a parking lane is provided, a clear width of 2.2 m is to be maintained.

·         Streets with high parking permit demand, or with meters or taxi stands on both sides are to have two parking lanes with a clear width of 2.2 m each.

·         Roads with ditches and no curbs that have posted speeds greater than 60 km/hr are to have two parking/shoulder lanes with a clear with of 2.2 m each, where possible.

2 days

3

A, B

Most Major Collectors

8 days

4

A,B, C

Most Minor Collectors

Encroachment not to reduce clear width less than 6.0 m (2 lanes of 3.0 m).

·         On streets with high parking permit demand, or with meters or taxi stands on both sides, the clear width is to be 8.2 m.

14 days

5

A, C

Residential Roads and Lanes

Encroachment not to reduce clear width less than 5.0 m (2.8 m travel lane plus 2.2 m parking lane).

·         On streets with high parking permit demand, or with meters or taxi stands on both sides, the clear width is not to be less than 7.2 m (2.8 m travel lane plus 2 parking lanes of 2.2 m each).

14 days

B

Encroachment not to reduce clear width less than 2.5 m.

Notes:    - Refer to Table 101.01.01 for description of road maintenance classes.

 


Outcome

The main outcome of maintaining hard and treated surfaces is safe roads for all users by removing surface hazards and extending the life of the asset by preserving the infrastructure.

 

Description

This standard applies to distortions on bridges, paved and treated road surfaces, including cycling lanes, paved and gravel shoulders, that could pose a risk to cyclists and motorists, and/or that could accelerate the deterioration of the road structure.  This standard also applies to grates/ironworks located within the roadway.

 

The standards meet the provisions of Ontario Regulation 239/02, the “Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Roads”, where minimum standards are defined.

 

Distortions include:

·        bumps or depressions that result in water ponding for periods greater than 24 hours;

·        potholes;

·        cracking;

·        wheel track rutting;

·        ravelling;

·        vertical discontinuities;

·        pavement edge cracks;

·        pavement drop-off at shoulders;

·        bridge deck spalls.

 

The type of treatment for these surface distortions shall be selected by the City in accordance with the type and extent of the distortion, prevalent weather conditions and scheduled infrastructure rehabilitation programs.  It may not be possible to carry out some operations between November 15th and April 15th because of temperature limitations.  In such case, interim/temporary measures will be required if conditions create a safety hazard to the users.

 

Standard

The following criteria are used as maximums for allowable surface distortions:

·        Bumps or depressions causing ponding of water at least half of a lane width and that could pose a hazard to the users.

·        Drop-offs at the edge of pavement equal to or greater than 5 cm in height over a continuous length of 20 m (maximum of 8 cm as per Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways).

·        Cracks equal to or greater than 5 cm width x 5 cm depth x 3 m length (as per Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways).

·        Potholes greater than 25 cm in diameter and greater than 5 cm in depth (maximum of 8 cm as per Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways).

·        Vertical pavement discontinuities equal to or greater than 5 cm (not applicable when on a bridge deck- as per Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways).

·        Bridge deck spalls (cavities) equal to or greater than 25 cm in diameter and greater than 5 cm in depth (maximum of 8 cm as per Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways).

·        Potholes in paved or non-paved shoulders greater than 40 cm in diameter and greater than 8 cm in depth (maximum of 8-12 cm as per Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways).

 

The following criteria are used as maximums for allowable surface distortions along designated City cycling routes – within designated cycling lanes or within 1.5 m from the edge of road (or parking lanes) along shared use lanes (May – November) (subject to funding approval in 2004 to 2008 budgets).

·        Longitudinal cracks equal to or greater than 2.5 cm in width.

·        Potholes and bridge deck spalls greater than 10 cm in diameter.

·        Vertical pavement discontinuities equal to or greater than 2 cm.

 

Service Level

Distortions that pose an immediate safety hazard to the users, including missing or severely cracked/damaged grates/ironworks and misaligned catch basin grates are to be clearly marked as a hazard as soon as practicable but not to exceed 4 hours from the time of becoming aware of the condition.

 

Surface distortions that exceed the maximum conditions are to be repaired within the times set out in Table 104.01.01 after becoming aware of the conditions.  If a vertical discontinuity on a bridge deck exceeds 5 cm, resources to repair the conditions are to be deployed as soon as practicable after becoming aware of the condition.  Surface distortions that are less than the maximums may be repaired subject to severity and availability of funds.

 

Surface distortions along designated city cycling routes are to be repaired within 7 days (May – November).  Priority attention is to be given to distortions located at intersections and hills.  Repairs may be temporary to eliminate the hazard until more permanent repairs can be undertaken.

 

Hard and treated surface repairs will not exceed the conditions prescribed by Ontario Regulation 239/02, Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways.

 

Related Standards

102.01 ROUTINE ROAD PATROLS – General Visual


 

Table 104.01.01 – Hard and Treated Surface Distortions

 

Distortion Type

Road Maintenance Class

Road Type

Time

(Time as per MMSMH)

Potholes in Roadway, Bumps or Depressions Causing Ponding and Shoulder Drop-offs

1

A, B

Highest Priority Roads

2 days (4 days)

2

A, B

Most Arterials

4 days (4 days)

3

A, B

Most Major Collectors

7 days (7 days)

4

A, B

Most Minor Collectors

14 days (14 days)

5

A

Residential Roads and Lanes

30 days (30 days)

B

60 days (not defined)

 

 

 

 

 

Potholes in Paved or Non-Paved Shoulder

1

A, B

Highest Priority Roads

2 days (7 days)

2

A, B

Most Arterials

4 days (7 days)

3

A, B

Most Major Collectors

7 days (14 days)

4

A, B

Most Minor Collectors

30 days (30 days)

5

A

Residential Roads and Lanes

60 days (60 days)

B

90 days (not defined)

 

 

 

 

 

Cracks

1

A, B

Highest Priority Roads

30 days (30 days)

2

A, B

Most Arterials

3

A, B

Most Major Collectors

60 days (60 days)

4

A, B

Most Minor Collectors

180 days (180 days)

5

A

Residential Roads and Lanes

180 days (180 days)

B

180 days (not defined)

 

 

 

 

 

Bridge Deck Spalls

1

A, B

Highest Priority Roads

2 days (4 days)

2

A, B

Most Arterials

4 days (4 days)

3

A, B

Most Major Collectors

7 days (7 days)

4

A, B

Most Minor Collectors

5

A

Residential Roads and Lanes

B

30 days (not defined)

 

 

 

 

 

Vertical Pavement Discontinuities (not when on an bridge deck)

1

A, B

Highest Priority Roads

2 days (2 days)

2

A, B

Most Arterials

2 days (2 days)

3

A, B

Most Major Collectors

7 days (7 days)

4

A, B

Most Minor Collectors

21 days (21 days)

5

A

Residential Roads and Lanes

21 days (21 days)

B

60 days (not defined)

Notes:    - Refer to Table 101.01.01 for description of road maintenance classes.

- MMSMH refers to Ontario Regulation 239/02, Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways.

 


Outcome

The main outcome of maintaining gravel road surfaces is safe and passable roads for all users by removing surface hazards and extending the life of the asset by preserving the infrastructure.

 

Description

This standard applies to distortions on gravel road surfaces, including gravel shoulders, that could pose a risk to the users, and/or that could accelerate the deterioration of the road structure.

 

The standards meet the provisions of Ontario Regulation 239/02, the “Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Roads”, where minimum standards are defined.

 

Distortions include:

·        bumps or depressions that result in water ponding for periods greater than 24 hours;

·        potholes;

·        cracking;

·        wheel track rutting;

·        rippling and shoving (“wash boarding”);

 

The type of treatment for these surface distortions shall be selected by the City in accordance with the type and extent of the distortion, prevalent weather conditions and scheduled infrastructure rehabilitation programs.  Some operations cannot be carried out between November 15th and April 15th because of temperature limitations.  In such case, interim/temporary measures may be required if conditions create a safety hazard to the users.

 

Standard

The following criteria are used as maximums for allowable gravel surface distortions:

·        Bumps or depressions causing ponding of water at least half of a lane width and that could pose a hazard to the users.

·        Potholes along the travel surface greater than 40 cm in diameter and greater than 8 cm in depth (maximum of 8-12 cm as per Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways).

·        Potholes in shoulders greater than 40 cm in diameter and greater than 8 cm in depth (maximum of 8-12 cm as per Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways).

·        Wheel rutting greater than 8 cm in depth over a 50 m length.

·        Washboarding conditions with a crest to valley depth greater than 5 cm.

·        Excessively dusty conditions causing nuisance to property owners or hazardous conditions to traffic.

 


Service Level

Distortions that pose an immediate safety hazard to the users are to be clearly marked as a hazard as soon as practicable but not to exceed 4 hours or from the time of becoming aware of the condition.  Repairs are to be completed as soon as practicable thereafter.

 

Surface distortions that exceed the maximum conditions are to be repaired within the times set out in Table 104.02.01 after becoming aware of the conditions.

 

Gavel surface repairs will not exceed the conditions prescribed by Ontario Regulation 239/02, Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways.

 

The minimum frequency for grading and dust control is defined in Table 104.02.02.

 

Related Standards

102.01 ROUTINE ROAD PATROLS – General Visual

 

 

Table 104.02.01 – Gravel Surface Distortions

 

Distortion Type

Road Maintenance Class

Road Type

Time

(Time as per MMSMH)

Potholes in Roadway, Bumps or Depressions Causing Ponding

4

C

Most Minor Collectors

7 days (14 days)

5

C

Residential Roads and Lanes

14 days (30 days)

 

 

 

 

 

Potholes in Shoulder

4

C

Most Minor Collectors

14 days (30 days)

5

C

Residential Roads and Lanes

30 days (60 days)

 

 

 

 

 

Wheel Tracking, Wash boarding and Dust

4

C

Most Minor Collectors

7 days (not defined)

5

C

Residential Roads and Lanes

14 days (not defined)

 

 

 

 

 

Dust

4

C

Most Minor Collectors

7 days (not defined)

5

C

Residential Roads and Lanes

14 days (not defined)

Notes:    - Refer to Table 101.01.01 for description of road maintenance classes.

- Maximum as per MMSMH refers to Ontario Regulation 239/02, Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways.

 


 

Table 104.02.02 – Maintenance of Gravel Surfaces

 

Function

Road Maintenance Class

Road Type

Frequency

 Grading

(Spring to Early Summer)

4

C

Most Minor Collectors

3 times (up to application of dust control)

5

C

Residentials, Lanes and  Low Volume Roads

 

 

 

 

 

Grading

(Summer and Fall)

4

C

Most Minor Collectors

Spot grading as required based on regular patrol

5

C

Residentials, Lanes and  Low Volume Roads

 

 

 

 

 

Dust Control

(Spring to Early Summer)

4

C

Most Minor Collectors

Once per year or as required

5

C

Residentials, Lanes and  Low Volume Roads

Notes:    - Refer to Table 101.01.01 for description of road maintenance classes.

 


Outcome

The main outcome of maintaining sidewalks, pathways and bus pads is safe and passable/accessible facilities for pedestrians, cyclists and other users by removing surface hazards, and extending the life of the asset by preserving the infrastructure.

 

Description

This standard applies to distortions on paved or loose top surfaces that could pose a risk to pedestrians, cyclists and other users, and/or that could accelerate the deterioration of the infrastructure.  These distortions can be caused by frost action, tree root growth, differential settlement of the subsoil structure and/or deterioration of the surface due to age or excessive wear.

 

Distortions include:

·        bumps or depressions that result in water ponding;

·        potholes;

·        cracking;

·        vertical discontinuities.

 

This standard defines the priority to respond and repair deficiencies according to priority: Priority A shall receive the quickest response and Priority C is attended to when practicable as scheduled through planned maintenance activities.  Differences in response time reflect the nature of the work to be accomplished and the extent of public safety risk.

 

The type of treatment for these surface distortions shall be selected by the City in accordance with the type and extent of the distortion, prevalent weather conditions and scheduled infrastructure rehabilitation programs.  Some operations cannot be carried out between November 15th and April 15th because of weather limitations.  In such case, interim/temporary measures may be required if conditions create a safety hazard to the users.

 

Standard   

Priority A-        condition that presents a potential hazard (public liability): vertical discontinuities or cracks of 3 cm, damaged bollards or other devices that restrict vehicle access;

Priority B-        condition that impairs functions but is not a hazard:  vertical discontinuities or cracks between 1.5 cm and 3 cm;

Priority C-        condition that contributes to the long-term decline of the infrastructure: cracks less than 1.5 cm and spalling of the surface.

 

All sidewalks and pathways are to be inspected annually in the Spring prior to June 15th.

 


Service Level

The response times are defined in Table 105.01.01.  Repairs may be temporary to eliminate the hazard until more permanent repairs can be undertaken.

 

Related Standards

102.01  ROUTINE ROAD PATROLS - General Visual

201.01  INSPECTIONS – General Visual

 

 

 

 

Table 105.01.01 – Repairs to Sidewalk, Pathway and Bus Pads

 

Priority of Condition

Action

Time

A

Clearly identify location as a hazard

Within 8 hours

Make safe by repairing hazardous conditions

Within 7 days

B

Schedule into planned maintenance

As practicable prioritized based on severity.

C

Identify as part of infrastructure rehabilitation programs

Prioritized based on condition assessment.

 

 


Outcome

The main outcome of maintaining drainage systems and appurtenances is to permit these to function as intended in order to reduce potential flooding conditions that could present a safety hazard or that could degrade the quality of the infrastructure.

 

Description

This standard applies to the following drainage systems/appurtenances:

-         curbs and gutters

-         culverts

-         drainage ditches

-         catch basins

 

These drainage systems are intended to accommodate the flow of surface water and sub-grade water from the right-of-way to an outlet. 

 

This standard defines the priority to respond and repair deficiencies whereby Priority A shall receive the quickest response and Priority C is attended to when practicable or as scheduled through planned maintenance (i.e. road resurfacing or reconstruction, ditch cleaning, catch basin cleaning, etc).

 

Standard

Priority A-        obstructed drainage systems causing flooding that pose a hazard; deterioration of curbs/gutters that poses an immediate safety hazard

Priority B-        partially obstructed drainage systems causing intermittent water backups that do not pose a safety hazard but that over extended periods of time could impact the quality of the infrastructure; curbs/gutters directly adjacent to sidewalks with vertical discontinuity of 3.0 cm in height or greater (“trip edges”)

Priority C-        deterioration of curbs/gutters that do not pose a safety hazard

 

Trapping of beavers and removal of dams shall comply with current Provincial regulations.

 

Maintenance activities are to be carried out in accordance with applicable guidelines, procedures and policies, including the provisions of the Ontario Traffic Manual.

 

Service Level

The response times are defined in Table 105.02.01 and are taken after becoming aware of the conditions.

 

Related Standards

102.01  ROUTINE ROAD PATROLS - General Visual

 

 

 

Table 105.02.01 – Roadside Drainage Systems

 
Priority of Condition

Action

Response Time

A

Clearly mark as a hazard and undertake action to remove the hazard

As soon as practicable but not to exceed 4 hours

B

Undertake action to repair/correct

the deficiency

Within 30 days

C

Schedule into planned maintenance or rehabilitation programs

As practicable

 

 

 

 


Outcome

The main outcome of maintaining street furniture is an enhanced quality of life by making these assets accessible to the public in a manner that is safe and that will maximize their usable life.

 

Description

The City provides street furniture, such as benches, planters, litter containers, bicycle stands etc. for the convenience of the public.  Street furniture maintenance includes the placement, removal, on-site maintenance and storage.

 

This standard defines the priority to respond and repair deficiencies in street furniture such that they are fixed and responded to according to priority (i.e. Priority A shall receive the quickest response, while Priorities C and D are attended to when practicable).  Differences in response time reflect the nature of the work to be accomplished and whether that work implicates public liability or is simply a quality of life matter.  The lowest priority, ‘D’ refers to unsightly conditions such as “tagging” graffiti.  However, graffiti depicting messages of hate is to be removed or covered as set out in 106.04 CLEANUP- Hazardous Items and Graffiti.

 

Standard

Priority A-        damage/condition that presents an immediate hazard (public liability)

Priority B-        damage/condition that impairs functions and/or operations of equipment (i.e. broken bench slats)

Priority C-        damage/condition that contributes to long-term decline of the asset (i.e. worn paint that allows for rot or rust)

Priority D-        damage/condition that is unsightly (quality of life), such as “tagging” graffiti or excessively dirty.

 

Street furniture shall be repaired as per the manufacturers’ recommendations.

 

Service Level

Response times are defined in Table 105.03.01 and are taken after becoming aware of the conditions.

 

Related Standards

102.01  ROUTINE ROAD PATROLS - General Visual

106.04  CLEANUP – Hazardous Items and Graffiti


 

 

 

Table 105.03.01 - Maintenance of Street Furniture

 
Priority of Damage

Action

Response Time

A

Make safe by repairing or removing hazardous conditions

As soon as practicable but not to exceed 24 hours

B

Remove or repair broken item to prevent further damage or from becoming a potential hazard

Within 30 days

C, D

Schedule into planned maintenance

As practicable

 

 


Outcome

The main outcome of grass cutting is aesthetic conditions along the roadway.

 

Description

Regular mowing is intended to maintain turf at a uniform height.  Regular mowing is not only beneficial to the plant but also reduces the amount of thatch that builds up over time.  In addition, regular cutting promotes denser turf thereby discouraging some weed species. 

 

Standard

The standard is to cut and trim urban medians and boulevards to a height of 75 mm with a maximum height of 125 mm.

 

This standard does not apply to the following locations:

-         urban residential and rural subdivision boulevards, unless properties are vacant

-         rural areas that cannot be accessed with regular mowing equipment

-         locations that have been defined for naturalization

 

Service Level

The frequency of grass cutting is defined in Table 105.04.01.

 

Mowing and trimming are normally prescheduled activities between the months of May and October, subject to weather conditions.  The schedule may not correspond with the actual rate of grass growth.  Scheduling of mowing and trimming may have to be increased in the cool damp spring and fall weather and decreased in mid summer drought conditions.

 

Related Standards

102.01    ROUTINE ROAD PATROL – General Visual

105.05  ROADSIDE - Brushing

 

 


 

Table 105.04.01 Roadside Grass Cutting

 

Road Classification

Urban

Rural

Whole Boulevard

Adjacent Shoulders and Medians

1

A

3 times per year

4-5 times per year

Not Applicable

B

Every 2 weeks

2

A, B

May-June: Every 2 weeks

July-September: Once per month

2 times per year

3

A, B

1-2 times per year

4

A, B, C

Not Applicable

Once per year

5

A, C

Once per year

B

Notes:    - Refer to Table 101.01.01 for description of road maintenance classes.

 


Outcome

The main outcome of brushing is safe roads by removing plant materials that obstruct signs, sightlines along roadways, and ensure ditches can drain freely.

 

Description

Brushing involves the cutting of long grass and brush primarily at road intersections, along guide rails and in ditches that are not readily accessible with conventional grass cutting equipment.  This activities is carried out on a site specific basis.  This operation must be timed to minimize the spread of weeds to agricultural land.

 

Standard

Grass and brush are to be cut to eliminate sightline obstructions or encroachments that could impact on pedestrian, cyclist and vehicular traffic.

 

Priority shall be given to sightline obstructions at roadway intersections, railway crossings, trail crossings, and along pedestrian paths. Encroachments on signs are to be considered an immediate hazard.

 

Service Level

Conditions that pose an immediate hazard shall be addressed within 24 hours from the time the condition is reported.  Some conditions may require more than 24 hours to complete.  As such these are to be completed as soon as practicable.

 

Conditions that do not pose an immediate hazard shall be scheduled into planned maintenance activities.

 

Related Standards

102.01  ROUTINE ROAD PATROLS- General Visual

105.04  ROADSIDE – Grass Cutting

 


Outcome

The main outcome of naturalization is a bio-diverse habitat resulting from the reduction in area of turf that needs mowing on City owned properties.

 

Description

Naturalization reduces the amount of mowed areas maintained by the City and promotes slowing and filtration of surface water run-off.  Naturalization also has the added benefit of promoting a healthier, more bio-diverse city that provides habitat to birds, butterflies, waterfowl and the like.  By reducing the amount of areas that require mowing we are better able to improve the quality of existing turf areas for future generations.

 

Standard

In order to reduce the quantity of mowed areas, a consistently un-mown edge condition and designated un-mown areas shall be initiated and maintained.  Layout of the mowing limits will be site specific and should include marked up site plans and possibly edge demarcation to guide operators, particularly in the spring.  Brushing may be required to maintain lines of sight in boulevards as set out in 203.03 Turf Management - Brushing

 

Service Level

The service level for brushing is defined in 105.05 Roadside – Brushing.

 

Related Standards

102.01  ROUTINE ROAD PATROLS- General Visual

105.04  ROADSIDE – Grass Cutting

105.05  ROADSIDE – Brushing

 


Outcome

The main outcome of the spring cleanup is clean and safe roads, sidewalks and City-owned pedestrian malls by removing debris and deleterious materials that have accumulated through the winter season and that could otherwise enter and eventually obstruct the sewer/drainage system.

 

Description

This standard is intended to define activities that are required to clean-up litter, debris and deleterious materials that may have accumulated over the winter season and to remove residual grit and chemicals from winter snow clearing and de-icing operations.

 

Maintenance activities include:

-         sweeping/cleaning all paved roads and hard surface sidewalks/pathways where required;

-         removal of debris and litter along boulevards and roadsides;

-         removal of debris and litter along pathways, pedestrian malls and other City-owned facilities;

-         cleaning of bridges, including decks, sidewalks, handrails, curbs, gutters, barrier walls, expansion joints, drainage structures and all other concrete or steel components that may be impacted by de-icing chemicals;

-         reinstatement of lawns resulting from plow and snow removal damages.

 

Cleanup activities may be supplemented through volunteer and community groups.

 

Street cleaning operations can be carried out 24/7 in order to complete the spring cleanup as soon as possible. Until a further review is completed, this only applies to municipalities where this was the practice prior to amalgamation.

 

Standard

Cleanup procedures shall be carried out in accordance with applicable policies and procedures.

 

Should hazardous items be encountered, staff should notify the trained response personnel and stay on site until that hazard is removed or made safe.

 

The lapse of time between sweeping/cleaning of sidewalks and boulevards onto the roadway to be collected as part of the road sweeping/flushing operation is not to exceed 48 hours.

 

Lawns damaged as a result of plowing and snow clearing operations shall be reinstated by removing the damaged turf, leveling the affected area with topsoil and applying a premium grade seed mixture.  The homeowners shall be notified to water the affected area on a regular basis.

 


Service Level

Spring cleanup is to be completed by May 31st.

 

Lawn repairs are to be completed by June 15th.

 

Related Standards

106.02  CLEANUP – Street Cleaning

106.04    CLEANUP – Hazardous Items and Graffiti

106.05    CLEANUP – Spills and Accident Cleanup

 


Outcome

The main outcome of street cleaning is clean and safe roads, sidewalks and City-owned pedestrian malls by removing debris, posters and deleterious materials that accumulate throughout year.

 

Description

This standards applies to:

 

Standard

This standard applies to street cleaning operations after the completion of the spring cleanup (106.01).

 

Street cleaning operations take place during the months of June to October, inclusively.  Annual variations may occur, subject to weather conditions.

 

Street cleaning operations can be carried out 24/7.  Until a further review is completed, this only applies to municipalities where this was the practice prior to amalgamation.

 

Service Level

The frequency for street cleaning is defined in Table 106.02.01.

 

Debris on the roadway that poses an immediate hazard are to be removed as soon as practicable but within 4 hours of being made aware of condition.

 

Posters on posters collars are to be removed weekly.

 

Related Standards

102.01 ROUTINE ROAD PATROLS – General Visual

106.01 CLEANUP – Spring Cleanup

106.05 CLEANUP – Spills and Accident Cleanup

 

 

 


 

 

Table 106.02.01 – Street Cleaning Frequency (June to October)

 

Road Type

Frequency

Confederation Boulevard, ByWard Market, Elgin and Bank Streets (sections with restaurants and bars)

Daily

Central business area (i.e. Rideau, King Edward, Sussex, Queen, Albert, Slater, Laurier, Somerst,…)

2-4 times per week

Class 2A and 2B roads

Every 1-2 weeks

Class 3A and 4A roads

Every 3-8 weeks

Rural villages (main access roads only)

Monthly

Intersections of paved roads with gravel roads

Every 2 months or as required

Class 3B, 4B, 5A and 5B roads

Spot cleaning as required

Notes:    - Refer to Table 101.01.01 for description of road maintenance classes.

 

 


Outcome

The main outcome of emptying litter containers is clean city streets and pedestrian malls, free of deleterious materials.

 

Description

Garbage receptacles are placed at bus stops, along City streets and pedestrian malls.  The frequency of collection is related to location and level of usage.

 

Standard

Collection of litter containers is to be in accordance with applicable procedures.  Should hazardous items be encountered, staff should notify the trained response personnel and stay on site until that hazard is removed or made safe (refer to 106.04).

 

Service Level

The frequency of collection is defined in Table 106.03.01 for the period of May to November (subject to weather conditions).

 

Additional collections may be required for special events (parades, protests, etc).

 

During the winter the number of litter containers will be reduced and the frequency may be adjusted as required.

 

Related Standards

102.01  ROUTINE ROAD PATROLS – General Visual

106.04    CLEANUP – Hazardous Items and Graffiti

206.03  CLEANUP – Collection of Litter Containers (Parks and Sports Fields)

 

 

Table 106.03.01 - Collection of Litter Containers (Right-of-Way)

 

Location

Summer

Winter

Confederation Blvd, By-Ward Market

Daily

5-7 times per week

BIAs and downtown core

3-7 times per week

3-7 times per week

Bus stops

1-7 times per week depending on location and litter generation

1-7 times per week depending on location and litter generation

 


Outcome

The main outcome of removing hazardous items and graffiti is a clean and safe City by remove items that present a physical safety hazard and by eradicating promptly graffiti with messages of hate or violence.

 

Description

Hazardous items are to be disposed of by qualified response personnel.  Items might include discarded needles, broken glass, weapons or toxic substances.  Marking the site with barricades or signs without direct supervision is unacceptable.

 

The intent of graffiti clean up is to provide priority to eradicate graffiti depicting messages of hate or violence.

 

Standard

If hazardous items are discovered during an inspection they should not be left unattended.  The person carrying out the inspection (unless qualified and equipped) should remain on site until a hazards clean-up crew arrives.

 

Cleanup procedures shall be carried out in accordance with applicable policies and procedures.

 

Service Level

Response times are as follows:

- hazardous items:                           1 hour during weekdays (during regular work hours)

                                                      2 hours during weekdays (after regular work hours)

                                                      2 hours during weekends and holidays

- graffiti (hate or violence):              24 hours

 

Other forms of graffiti, such as “tagging”, are to be removed subject to availability of resources.  Graffiti located within a Council approved “zero-tolerance” zone shall be eradicated in accordance with the Council directive.

 

Related Work

102.01  ROUTINE ROAD PATROLS – General Visual

206.05  CLEANUP – Hazardous Items and Graffiti

 


Outcome

The main outcome of spills and accident cleanup is to protect the natural environment from contamination for spills resulting from accidents or incidents that occur within the roadway.

 

Description

The intent of this standard is to identify the nature of the spill so that appropriate action can be undertaken to ensure that accidental spills are contained, cleaned up and disposed of in a manner that will limit migration of contaminants beyond the right-of-way that could occur the sewer system or drainage ditches.

 

Staff are responsible for identifying and reporting potential environmental concerns to the appropriate persons responsible for ensuring that action is taken, including notifying the Ministry of the Environment.  Where spills could impact the sewer system, then the Utility Services Branch shall be notified as soon as possible.

 

Standard

Spills containment, cleanup and disposal shall be carried out in accordance with applicable environmental policies and regulations.

 

Cleanup activities are to be carried out in accordance with applicable guidelines, procedures and policies.

 

Service Level

The response time shall be as soon as practicable but not exceed 4 hours after being made aware of the spill or accident.  The spill or cleanup shall be addressed or completed prior to leaving the site.

 

Related Standards

106.01    CLEANUP – Spring Cleanup (Right-of-Way)

106.02    CLEANUP – Street Cleaning

 

 


Outcome

The main outcome of sign maintenance is improved mobility and safety by controlling, expediting and informing road users.

 

Description

This standard applies to maintenance of the following signs:

-         regulatory signs as defined in the latest edition of the Ontario Traffic Manual

-         warning signs as defined in the latest edition of the Ontario Traffic Manual

-         street name signs

-         911 civic number signs

-         community signs

-         guidance signs

 

This standard meets the provisions on Ontario Regulation 239/02, the “Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways”, where minimums are defined.

 

Standard

Regulatory and warning signs are to be installed in accordance with the provisions of the latest editions of the Ontario Highway Traffic Act and the Ontario Traffic Manual.

 

Street name, 911 civic number, guidance and community signs are to be installed in accordance with applicable practices and procedures.

 

Service Level

The response time is taken from the time of being made aware that a sign is illegible, improperly oriented or missing as defined in Table 107.01.01.  Priority is given where the sign condition poses an immediate safety hazard to the users.

 

The time will not exceed the conditions prescribed by Ontario Regulation 239/02, Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways.

 

During frozen ground conditions, some non regulatory and warning signs may not be able to be replaced as defined in Table 107.01.01.  In the meantime, any hazard is to be addressed and the sign repaired/replaced as soon as practicable.

 

Related Standards

102.01 ROUTINE ROAD PATROLS – General Visual

 


 

 

Table 107.01.01 – Sign Maintenance

 

Sign Type

Road Maintenance Class

Road Type

Time

(Time as per MMSMH)

Regulatory Signs (Stop, Yield, Do Not Enter, No Turns, One-Way, School Zone Speed Limit)

 

Warning Signs (Checkerboard, Curve Sign with Advisory Speed Tab, Stop Ahead, Stop Ahead New, Traffic Signal Ahead New, Two Way Traffic Ahead, Wrong Way, Yield Ahead, Yield Ahead New)

All

Within 3 hours

with stop and yield signs given the highest priority

(as soon as practicable)

 

All Other Regulatory and Warning Signs

1

A, B

Highest Priority Roads

7 days (7 days)

2

A, B

Most Arterials

3

A, B

Most Major Collectors

21 days (21 days)

4

A, B, C

Most Minor Collectors

30 days (30 days)

5

A, B, C

Residential Roads and Lanes

 

Guidance/Directional, Street Name and Community Signs

All

30 days (not defined)

 

911 Civic Number Signs

All

30 days (not defined)

Notes:    - Refer to Table 101.01.01 for description of road maintenance classes.

- MMSMH refers to Ontario Regulation 239/02, Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways.

 


Outcome

The main outcome of maintaining pavement markings is safe roads and improved mobility by warning and guiding pedestrian, cyclist and vehicle traffic in order to reduce the risk of accidents and maintain uniform flow of traffic.

 

Description

This standard applies to all pavement markings on City roads.

 

Standard

Pavement markings are to be visible year round. 

 

Pavement marking are to be provided and applied in accordance with the latest edition of the Ontario Traffic Manual.

 

Roadways scheduled for resurfacing or reconstruction are not to be marked, except where the existing markings are very worn or ineffective and the resurfacing or reconstruction works are scheduled to begin in more than 20 calendar days from the date the markings would be scheduled to occur.

 

Service Level

Pavement markings for newly paved roads shall be applied as soon as practicable following notification of completion of road paving or resurfacing.  Pre-marking shall be installed as soon as practicable to assist in guiding traffic until such time as new markings can be applied.

 

The frequency for reapplication of pavement markings is defined in Table 107.02.01.

 

Related Standards

102.01  ROUTINE ROAD PATROLS – General Visual

106.01  CLEANUP – Spring Cleanup

 


 

 

Table 107.02.01 – Maintenance of Pavement Markings

 

Marking Type

Road Maintenance Class

Road Type

Frequency

Centreline, Lane Line and Edge Line Stripping

1

A, B

Highest Priority Roads

Twice per year

2

A, B

Most Arterials

3

A, B

Most Major Collectors

Once per year

or as required

4

A, B

Most Minor Collectors

5

A, B

Residential Roads and Lanes

As required

 

Transverse Markings (signalized intersections, school crosswalks, rural multi-way intersections)

1

A, B

Highest Priority Roads

Twice per year

2

A, B

Most Arterials

3

A, B

Most Major Collectors

Once per year

or as required

4

A, B

Most Minor Collectors

5

A, B

Residential Roads and Lanes

 

Transverse Markings (turning arrows, railway crossings, stop bars, curb markings, meter stalls, specialty markings for buses and cyclists)

1

A, B

Highest Priority Roads

Once per year

2

A, B

Most Arterials

3

A, B

Most Major Collectors

As required

4

A, B

Most Minor Collectors

5

A, B

Residential Roads and Lanes

 

Hatching

All

Every 2 years

or as required

Notes:    - Refer to Table 101.01.01 for description of road maintenance classes.

 


Outcome

The main outcome of maintaining guide rails and barriers is safe roads by effectively serving to divide traffic flow or defining sharp curves, high embankments or other hazardous locations.

 

Description

Barriers are installed along the outer edges of shoulders/roadways to protect vehicular traffic against the possibility of collision with roadside hazards.  This standard applies to the maintenance of energy absorbing, semi-rigid or rigid barriers:

 

-         energy absorbing barriers such as cylinders filled with energy absorbing materials or mechanical devices with or without energy absorbing cartridges;

-         semi-rigid barriers such as steel beam guide rail, box beam guide rail, cable guide rail and guide posts;

-         rigid barriers such as “Jersey” concrete barriers.

 

Energy absorbing and semi-rid barriers are intended to deform and partially break during a collision and absorb some energy of the collision in doing so.  Rigid barriers are intended to re-direct errant vehicles back to a safer line of travel.

 

Standard

Barriers are to be fabricated and installed in accordance with the latest editions of the Ontario Provincial Standards and Specifications and the Ontario Traffic Manual.  

 

Service Level

The response time to clearly mark the affected area as a hazard is to be as soon as practicable but not to exceed 4 hours from the time being made aware that a guide rail or other traffic barrier has been damaged and is posing a potential hazard to the road users.

 

The time to complete permanent repairs to damaged guide rail or other traffic barrier is defined in Table 107.03.01.

 

Where damage to guide rail posts occurs during winter season when ground is frozen, or where replacement materials have to be ordered or fabricated, the affected area is to be clearly marked as a hazard until permanent repairs are completed.

 

Related Standards

102.01  ROUTINE ROAD PATROLS – General Visual  


 

 

Table 107.03.01 – Repairs to Guide Rails and Barriers

 

Road Maintenance Class

Road Type

Time

1

A, B

Highest Priority Roads

4 months

2

A, B

Most Arterials

6 months

3

A, B

Most Major Collectors

4

A, B

Most Minor Collectors

8 months

5

A, B

Residential Roads and Lanes

Notes:    - Refer to Table 101.01.01 for description of road maintenance classes.

 

 


Outcome

The main outcome of maintaining noise barriers and fences is preserved assets in order that they effectively act to reduce noise or restrict access.

 

Description

This standard applies to City-owned noise barriers and fences located along roadways.

 

Standard

Maintenance and repairs are to be undertaken in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations.

 

Service Level

The response time to clearly mark the affected area is to be within 24 hours from the time being made aware that a noise barrier or fence has been damaged and is creating a potential safety hazard.

 

The time to complete permanent repairs to damaged noise barrier is to be planned into scheduled maintenance but should not exceed a period of 6 months.

 

Related Standards

102.01    ROUTINE ROAD PATROLS – General Visual

204.01  REMEDIAL REPAIRS – Site Furniture and Fences