City of Gary Activates Winter Response Plan Ahead of Weekend Storm

GARY, IN – City of Gary leadership met today to review and align operational plans ahead of a winter weather system expected to move into the area Friday afternoon and continue through Saturday night. Current forecasts indicate 3 to 6 inches of snow through Saturday evening, with the possibility of heavier lake-effect snowfall and lower temperatures.

A prolonged period of severe winter weather has led to a widespread road-salt shortage across Indiana and neighboring states, driven by supply chain disruptions and unusually high demand. Despite these challenges, the City of Gary has secured more than 1,000 tons of salt through multiple procurement channels and is leveraging its Snow Response Plan to adapt quickly and maintain essential services.

In anticipation of the heavy snowfall, Gary’s Public Works and Street Departments have moved to a 24-hour operational cycle. City crews are working around the clock, and external contractors have been placed on standby to assist with snow removal in residential neighborhoods and secondary routes as conditions warrant.

“I want to thank the phenomenal men and women of the Gary Public Works Department who have worked diligently throughout this winter season to ensure our streets are cleared as quickly and safely as possible during recent major snowfalls,” said Mayor Eddie Melton. “Through proactive planning, we are able to respond efficiently and adjust as conditions change.”

Snow removal will continue to focus on major thoroughfares, emergency routes, and critical public safety areas, with neighborhood streets cleared afterward.

Residents in designated snow routes are required to move their vehicles to allow snow removal operations to proceed, and enforcement will be strictly applied. The City asks for patience and cooperation as crews work through the storm. To assist with clearing efforts, residents are encouraged to:

• Move vehicles off streets where possible to allow plows to pass.

• Check on elderly or vulnerable neighbors.

• Follow official City of Gary social media channels for real-time updates.

The City also extends its gratitude to county and state partners for their invaluable coordination with Gary’s Emergency Management teams. This inter-agency support, combined with the efforts of Public Works crews and contractors, is critical in maintaining safe and efficient operations during this demanding winter season.

Contact:
Steve Segura
Chief Communications Officer
City of Gary
stsegura@gary.gov

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