News photo by Kayla Wikaryasz On Thursday, a tree limb is seen laying on the ground near a power pole by the Alpena County Courthouse.

ALPENA — According to a City of Alpena press release on Thursday, the City is asking residents to not place brush on curbs.

The release stated that Department of Public Works (DPW) crews are actively cleaning up roadside tree and brush debris. Priority will be given to roads first, then sidewalks, followed by the bi-path, parks, and then the cemetery depending on the availability of equipment and personnel.

If you are aware of a tree or limb that poses a risk to the public, the public is asked to contact DPW at 989-354-1780.

The City advises residents to forego brush collection as the potential for more snow could create challenges for cleanup efforts.

“We understand that citizens may have brush on their private property,” the release stated. “With additional snow possible, the plows will pile more snow on the brush making collection more difficult. Further, the plow blade may catch debris and drag it down the curbline creating a dangerous situation. Any brush that is on private property should be left until the City can determine a date for pick-up.”

According to the City, DPW crews will leave brush from the roadways and other public areas at the curb during cleanup as this is the most efficient location to clear these areas quickly. DPW crews will return as soon as possible to remove and chip this brush.

City staff will determine potential dates for brush placement to the curb as well as pick-up and will issue additional information once those dates are determined, the release stated. Residents placing brush at the curbside prior to the dates being issued may be subject to normal code enforcement procedures within Chapter 102 Vegetation of the City’s municipal code.

“We ask for your patience as we determine a safe and appropriate time to pick up brush from private properties,” the release stated.

The City also reminded residents that the cleanup associated with the ice storm that began on Sunday will likely delay the regular spring work that DPW crews accomplish within the parks and throughout the City. Further, it may delay the first bagged material pick-up as many contractors may be assisting the City with the cleanup process.

“Thank you for your patience, cooperation, and understanding as we respond to this immediate emergency and clean up our community,” the release stated.

For further questions, residents should contact City Engineer Steve Shultz at 989-354-1730 or via email: steves@alpena.mi.us.