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Cedar Falls launches 'Snow Buddies' program to help residents with sidewalk clearing
Summary
The Cedar Falls City Council and Bike & Ped Commission announced a Snow Buddies volunteer program to help low- and moderate-income residents clear snow and maintain accessible sidewalks; the program is income-qualified and intake is via phone or email.
The Cedar Falls City Council on Dec. 15 highlighted a new volunteer-driven program designed to help residents who cannot clear snow from sidewalks.
TW, chair of the Cedar Falls Human Rights Commission, described accessibility concerns raised by residents and advocates and introduced the Bike & Ped Commission's Snow Buddies program, which will pair volunteers with residents in need. The program is intended to assist low- and moderate-income households and will operate on a first-come, first-served basis, with proximity considered when matching volunteers and requests.
City staff said residents in need can request assistance by calling 319-268-5156 or emailing snowbuddies@cedarfalls.com; program staff will collect information and perform income verification as required. The city reminded residents that its ordinance requires full sidewalk clearance within 48 hours after snowfall, including curb ramps for accessibility.
Mayor (unnamed) thanked the Bike & Ped Commission for leading the initiative and urged able-bodied residents to consider volunteering. "Walking out in the street is not safe, especially around the school with children," TW said, urging neighbors to keep corners and ramps clear for people using wheelchairs, walkers or guide dogs.
City staff posted Snow Buddies details and sign-up information on the city website (www.cedarfalls.com) and said program monitoring and coordination will be handled by commission volunteers with staff support. The council did not take formal action on the program at the meeting; staff said they will manage enrollments and report back as needed.
