MSU’s commitment to snow and ice removal

At MSU safety is a top priority and that includes clearing the roads and sidewalks of snow and ice. Our teams in IPF are out early (and sometimes late) to ensure they are keeping up with falling snow. With 124 miles of sidewalks, 56 lane miles of roadway, 8 bridges, 7 parking ramps and approximately 25,000 parking spots there's quite a lot of work involved. We've got experts and equipment on our side. We need a little of your help too. 

Work with snow-removal experts to ensure your safety. 

Snow-removal equipment is large, loud and difficult to stop. Avoid darting out in front of or behind such equipment and make eye contact with a snow-removal driver before crossing the street in front of them.  

1. On sidewalks: Avoid parking so close to the sidewalk that your car’s bumper hangs over the walk. It creates an obstacle for snow-removal equipment.
2. In parking lots: If possible, park in the plowed areas of parking lots to help snow-removal workers quickly clear the unplowed areas without navigating around vehicles. Employees are encouraged to park personal and university vehicles in the parking ramps during a snow event.
3. In residence hall loops: Parking is prohibited in these loops between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m. to allow snow-removal workers time to clear them.
4. Regarding bikes: Avoid chaining bikes to signs. It is illegal on campus and creates obstacles for snow-removal equipment.
5. Regarding ice-melt compound: Give it some time to take effect. Also, while safety is a priority one, using ice-melt compound responsibly is important to limit negative environmental impacts.
6. Additional cold weather and snow resources are available on the EVPA website. 

WATCH video of snow plow dash camera!

IPF is taking the following measures

In order to minimize the risk of slip-and-fall injuries due to icy and slippery surfaces. 

• Landscape Services removes snow and applies ice-melt compound to roads, parking lots and sidewalks up to University buildings. 
• Custodial Services, Maintenance Services(Set-up Crew) and Residential and Hospitality Services clear building entrances, stairs, landings and handicap ramps up to six feet out from the building.
• ContactIPF: taking incoming calls about areas needing snow or ice removal and routing them to appropriate staff.
• Available as needed: Ice-melt compound will be provided in containers at building entrances to be used as needed. The buckets will be replenished by the building custodians. (Those living in residence halls or University apartments should inform the facility manager of the need for ice-melt compound.)

Simple ways you can help the snow, ice removal process

Use caution when traveling across campus: Give snow removal equipment and staff extra space to maneuver and stop. Remember to wear cold weather gear and walk like a penguin. 

Report an area in need of snow or ice removal: Call 353-1760. Areas near University residence halls should be reported to the facility manager of the residence hall.

Read last year's reminder