Does Cheney plowing ordinance benefit pedestrians?

I found the recent article describing changes that the Cheney police department has proposed in order to enhance future snow removal (“Cheney changes plowing ordinance,” 2/16) to be interesting as it suggests that safe pedestrian travel is a priority.

My experience as a pedestrian during the winter in Cheney has been quite the opposite. If there is an ordinance that compels homeowners to clear their sidewalks, it is not enforced. Many sidewalks have just thawed, having been snow covered since early December, and some of those are designated “Safe Walking Routes” by the Cheney School District.

To make matters worse, city plows often pile snow on sidewalks, not only blocking pedestrian travel, but also preventing access to STA bus stops.

Snow removal certainly is a difficult job, especially during a challenging winter. Nevertheless, I would like to know more about the steps being taken to prioritize safe pedestrian travel during winter conditions.

At present, it seems like vehicle travel takes priority at the cost of pedestrian safety.

Frank Lynch

Cheney