The City of Peterborough is inviting community feedback on a proposed pilot program to assist seniors with clearing the end of their driveways after city snow plowing.
At city council’s January 26 general committee meeting, Peterborough mayor Jeff Leal proposed a motion for city staff to investigate options for a seniors snow clearing program that could include assistance with removing windrows — the ridge of snow left behind after city snow plows clear the roadway.
The mayor’s motion, which councillors unanimously supported both at general committee and at the February 2 council meeting, also asked city staff to conduct community engagement including a public survey.
City staff are now accepting feedback on a pilot windrow removal program, with an online survey available at connectptbo.ca/windrow-removal-program until April 10. Paper copies of the survey can be requested by emailing communications@peterborough.ca.
“For many older adults and people with disabilities, the windrow can be heavy and difficult to remove — especially after repeated snow events,” the city’s website states.
“A windrow removal program is a service designed to help eligible residents by clearing the windrow portion at the end of the driveway after city plows have passed. The goal is to support safety, accessibility, and aging at home, especially for residents who may not have reliable help for winter snow clearing.”
The proposed pilot program, which would operate during the 2026-2027 winter season if approved, would focus on windrow clearing only — not full driveway clearing — and would be intended for eligible seniors and people with disabilities. The program would consider a user fee to help offset costs and would operate as a limited-capacity pilot to test the service and learn what works best for the community.
Following the feedback period, city staff will review survey results to develop detailed program options, including proposed eligibility criteria, service scope and limitations, fee structure, participant capacity, and service standards (including response timing after plowing).
City staff would present the findings of the pilot program and recommended program details to council for consideration. If approved, registration is anticipated to open in fall 2026. Following the completion of the pilot program in the 2026-2027 winter season, the city would share results with the public and consider adjustments or expansion as part of a spring 2027 report to council.
