Significant Increase in Complaints
The City of Quebec has reported a staggering 946 complaints regarding street snow removal for the 2025-2026 season, marking a notable increase of 51% from the 627 complaints received last year. This rise in grievances highlights the growing dissatisfaction among residents concerning the city’s snow management efforts.
Last winter, the city recorded 978 complaints regarding street snow removal, indicating that the current season’s figures are not an isolated incident but part of a troubling trend. Additionally, complaints about sidewalk snow removal have also surged, with 478 complaints this year compared to 325 last year. In the previous season, there were 543 complaints about sidewalk snow removal, further illustrating the ongoing issues faced by the city.
Impact of Weather Conditions
The increase in complaints is attributed to numerous episodes of snow this winter, with the city experiencing 62 days of snow precipitation, which is 10 more days than last year and 20 more days than the year before. This significant uptick in snowfall has placed additional pressure on the city’s snow removal services, leading to heightened public frustration.
Bike Lane Complaints
Complaints regarding bike lane snow removal have also fluctuated, with 56 complaints in 2024, 67 in 2025, and a decrease to 49 in 2026. This inconsistency reflects the challenges the city faces in maintaining safe and accessible bike lanes during the winter months.
City’s Response
In response to the rising complaints, Mayor Bruno Marchand has emphasized the administration’s commitment to being proactive in addressing these issues. He stated, “On va être très proactifs et très prêts” (We will be very proactive and very ready), signaling a determination to improve the city’s snow removal strategies.
Expert Insights
François Moisan, a city official, highlighted the significance of the number of days with snow precipitation, stating, “Le chiffre qui est significatif pour nous cet hiver, c’est le nombre de jours de précipitations” (The significant figure for us this winter is the number of days of precipitation). This acknowledgment of the weather’s impact on snow removal efforts underscores the challenges that lie ahead for city planners.
Looking Ahead
As the winter progresses, the City of Quebec is preparing for potential severe weather scenarios, with expectations of continued snowfall. However, details remain unconfirmed regarding specific measures that will be implemented to address the growing concerns of residents. The administration’s ability to adapt to these challenges will be crucial in managing public expectations and ensuring safety on the roads and sidewalks.
