The City of Barrie is postponing its annual Spring Into Clean event, originally scheduled for April 23 to 27, due to safety concerns caused by the recent ice storm. The storm caused significant damage to trees and public spaces, leaving debris that has made parks and other public areas unsafe for residents. To ensure the safety of all participants, the decision was made to prioritize storm debris cleanup before welcoming volunteers back into these spaces. City crews require additional time to clear debris from sidewalks/boulevards, parks, and other public areas to make sure they are safe for community involvement.
“I know residents look forward to Spring Into Clean each year as an opportunity to come together and tidy up our city after a long winter,” said Mayor Alex Nuttall. “While we’re disappointed to postpone the event, safety is paramount, and the cleanup right now must focus on storm damage. We look forward to better weather and much improved conditions in the future to hold this wonderful community event that brings residents together to help beautify our city.”
The City continues to urge residents to please stay out of trails and treed areas in City parks. As cleanup continues in the coming weeks, the City will continually assess the situation and will ensure public spaces are in a safe condition prior to announcing a new date for the Spring Into Clean.
To date, crews have been able to make a first pass of 50 percent of the city to collect debris at the curb. Crews will be making multiple passes across the city until everything is cleaned up.
Reminder: The City is waiving residential brush tipping fees at the landfill site until Friday, May 2, to support storm cleanup. The landfill is located at 272 Ferndale Drive North and is open Tuesday to Saturday, 8:30am to 3:30pm.
The City is also extending depot hours at the landfill as follows:
- Saturday, April 12 – 8:30am to 6:30pm
- Sunday, April 13 – 8:30am to 3:30pm
Please visit www.barrie.ca/IceStorm for the most current information.
