THE RANT: Snow Removal

Dear Vermillion,

First, I know the snowy weather presents problems for all travelers in the city, and snow removal is never a simple process. I would like to start by saying Vermillion has done a fine job clearing snow from the city streets in a quick and decent fashion so far this winter.

I applaud these efforts because in my short four years living in Vermillion, I have been most impressed with the snow removal this year. We have had a few good snowstorms in the area already, and I’m sure more snow will fall in Vermillion before winter ends.

I completely understand it is up to the city of Vermillion’s snow plows to remove snow from the streets not only after the snowfall, but a few days later after homeowners, cars or nature itself move more snow onto the streets. I understand it is necessary to have the plows go back out and touch-up some street areas.

What I don’t understand is how loud the snowplows are while trying to move an inch or two of snow one more foot off the street. So far this year, I can recall three times I have woken up to the ear-piercing, screeching sound that metal and cement make when they scrape each other continuously.

Now, I think students off-campus are the only ones who receive the pleasure of hearing this painful and powerful melody. I can tell you first hand, if you haven’t heard the sound, you’re lucky, because it was the topic of discussion on my walk onto campus this morning.

To put into perspective the awful, loud and annoying sound, which is created by the city trying to move little drifts of snow, picture the high pitched squeal that occurs from fingernails on a blackboard.

Easily the most annoying way to wake up.

Thanks Vermillion,

Eric Mayer