WORCESTER—With the season’s first significant snowstorm expected to roll in Monday night, Worcester activates its Declared Winter Parking Ban at 11 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 1.
To help residents get vehicles off the streets, all municipal parking garages are free to anyone entering after 5 p.m. Monday until the ban is lifted. Event parking rates still apply for those attending special events.
The city recommends residents use one of the following garages: Federal Plaza, Major Taylor, Pearl & Elm, Worcester Common and Union Station.
The storm is also prompting schedule changes beyond the roads. Worcester Public Schools has canceled classes for Tuesday, Dec. 2, giving families an unexpected day at home — and, perhaps, a little more time to think about GivingTuesday in between shoveling, snowblowing and diving into indoor distractions.
City operations also see several adjustments because of the weather. Bulk waste drop-off closes Wednesday, while recycling drop-off and sand pickup remains available at 1065 Millbury St. Two additional sand pickup sites, at 22 Albany St. and 299 Clark St., are open before and after plowing operations. Leaf collection pauses on Tuesday; residents can check updated routes on the city website.
During the parking ban, parking is prohibited on both sides of main arteries, emergency routes, bus routes, and key downtown streets. On all other streets, parking is limited to the odd-numbered side unless posted otherwise. Residents can look up their street’s designation at worcesterma.gov/streets/winter-weather/winter-parking.
Towing and ticketing may be enforced to keep roadways passable, and residents with questions can contact Worcester 311 by phone, email, or the 311 app. Those searching for a towed vehicle should also call 311.
The city is urging drivers to stay off the roads whenever possible during the storm and to use extra caution if travel is necessary. Motorists should leave additional time for travel and give plows and road-treatment vehicles plenty of space. Residents have up to 10 hours after the storm ends to clear sidewalks bordering their property and are encouraged to help clear fire hydrants and catch basins where they can. The city reminds residents not to shovel or snowblow snow into the street.
ALERTWorcester remains offline, so residents should rely on the city website and social media channels for updated information.
For more details on parking bans, snow-removal policies, and winter safety resources, visit worcesterma.gov/streets/winter-weather.
