Significant Increase in Complaints
This winter, the City of Quebec has experienced a notable surge in complaints regarding snow removal, with a total of 946 complaints registered for street snow removal during the 2025-2026 season. This figure marks a substantial 51% increase from the 627 complaints recorded last year, highlighting growing public dissatisfaction with snow management.
In the previous season, 2023-2024, the city received 978 complaints concerning street snow removal, indicating that this year’s figures are part of a troubling trend. Additionally, complaints regarding sidewalk snow removal have also risen, with 478 complaints reported this year compared to 325 last year. This increase mirrors the trend seen in street complaints, suggesting a broader issue with snow removal services.
Bike Lane Concerns
Complaints related to bike lane snow removal have fluctuated over the years, with 56 complaints in 2024, 67 in 2025, and a decrease to 49 in 2026. This inconsistency raises questions about the effectiveness of snow management strategies for cyclists, an increasingly important aspect of urban transportation.
The rise in complaints is largely attributed to the weather conditions this winter, which have seen 62 days of snow precipitation. This is 10 days more than last year and 20 days more than the winter before, placing additional pressure on the city’s snow removal operations. François Moisan, a local official, emphasized the significance of these precipitation days, stating, “Le chiffre qui est significatif pour nous cet hiver, c’est le nombre de jours de précipitations.”
City’s Response
In response to the increasing complaints and challenging weather conditions, Mayor Bruno Marchand has assured the public that the administration is taking proactive measures. He stated, “On va être très proactifs et très prêts,” indicating a commitment to improving snow removal services and addressing public concerns.
Future Developments
As the winter progresses, it remains to be seen how effectively the city will respond to these complaints and whether the measures implemented will lead to a decrease in public dissatisfaction. The administration’s preparations for severe weather scenarios will be crucial in managing future snow removal challenges.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the specific strategies that will be enacted to improve snow removal services in Quebec. However, the significant increase in complaints this winter underscores the urgent need for effective solutions to ensure public safety and satisfaction during harsh weather conditions.