And so, after all these years of residents of the odd number side of the street shouldering the burden of clearing the way for the snow plows, the time has come to get … well, even.

It’s only fair that this new plan of alternating sides should finally become a reality. It has been discussed – and yes, even argued – for many years. At last the city administrators have hammered out the details and given the go-ahead for this first year’s run.

Let’s hope for the best that it works out well for everyone. Of course, those “even side dwellers” may have a bit to grumble about now. But they cannot deny that this is the fair thing to do, however inconvenient it may be to comply.

So remember, as the city informs us, because winter starts in an even year this year (2016), when a snow emergency is in effect, parking is allowed on the even-numbered side of the street only, unless otherwise posted. Vehicles parked on the odd-numbered side of the street must either be moved to the even side, or to another location. Due to parking limitations in the city, municipal and school lots will be made available to residents during snow emergencies. The city maintains a list and map of available lots. Vehicles must be moved from the odd side within four hours after the snow emergency has been declared, or they will be ticketed and towed in accordance with the City Code of Ordinances.