Policy Director Christopher Porter and Communications Advisor Veronica Hill joined another successful winter traffic planning meeting in Wrightwood this month. This annual gathering brings together agencies from Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties to coordinate efforts for the influx of visitors during the snowy season.
Ben Smith, VP of Operations at Mountain High Ski Resort, shared that this year’s snowfall is expected to be above average, following two below-average seasons.
“A lot of good things happen in Wrightwood thanks to this group, from traffic control to trash management and making important contacts,” he said.
Several agencies shared updates on how they’re preparing for the winter rush:
- San Bernardino County Fire is ready with a new snow cat funded by a grant and plans to put a second ambulance into service on busy weekends.
- San Bernardino County Sheriff has a new snow cat named The Blizzard Wizard, which will assist the fire department with search and rescue operations.
- CHP Victorville has a dedicated enforcement vehicle to manage traffic and parking issues.
- Los Angeles County has increased fines for illegal parking from $45 to $150 to help keep the highway safe and open for emergency vehicles.
- San Bernardino County Public Works has installed 459 new signs reminding drivers not to block snow plows. Fines for violations start at $100 and increase to $200, then $250 with repeat offenses. Code Enforcement will issue citations across all mountain communities.
- Wrightwood CSD is renovating restrooms and adding more porta-potties to accommodate visitors on busy weekends. They are also launching a new website to improve communication with the community and guests.
Jim Emery of the Wrightwood Fire Safe Council summed up this special annual meeting: “It really takes an opportunity like this to better serve the community.”
Thanks to these coordinated efforts, Wrightwood is better prepared than ever for a safe, enjoyable winter season.