The spring weather has arrived, but the City of Kelowna is waiting for a little more consistency before beginning its annual street sweeping.

City sweeping crews have sprung into action, but only on sidewalks and bike lanes.

A full road sweep, which has already been delayed by the colder than normal temperatures and late season snow, is expected to begin on April 1.

Photo Credit: NowMedia

“Residents may have already noticed the small sidewalk and bike lane sweepers at work. Street sweeping is completed in phases, beginning with sidewalks and bike lanes,” said Stephen Bryans, roadways operations supervisor.

“Once temperatures are consistently above zero, the next phase begins and crews can begin to clean and clear the main roads.”

Once road sweeping does begin, residents are asked to lend a helping hand by moving vehicles off the road as well as other items that could impede sweepers like basketball hoops.

Signage will be in place at least 24 hours in advance to let residents know when a certain area is supposed to be swept.

“We ask residents to be patient with regards to street sweeping this year,” said Bryans.

“Late season snowfalls and cooler temperatures have resulted in a significant accumulation of dirt and sand over the winter and it may take several passes to clear roads adequately.”

Sweepers will operate daily as they work to clean up 1,650 kilometres of roadways and bike lanes.