In the next phase of storm recovery operations, the Seattle Department of Transportation will inspect the city?s 1,531 lane miles of major streets for residual sand, potential drain blockages and worn striping, with special emphasis on bicycle routes.

Crews would then be dispatched to complete repairs, removing sand by hand if necessary.

Residents are encouraged to report sand on the roadways by calling 684-ROAD (7623).

As part of its comprehensive storm response, city traffic crews have completed an initial sweep of 1,531 lane miles, filled 594 potholes and repainted missing lane lines.

Since Jan. 14, crews have repainted missing lane markings on the West Seattle Bridge, the Aurora Bridge, Fauntleroy Way Southwest, 35th Avenue Southwest and in the north end of Seattle.

The city is aslo clearing bike lanes of storm sand this week.

Ten sweepers have been deployed to clean up more quickly from the storms of December and early January, nearly double the normal number used. Staff will be inspecting roadways throughout the city to assess where additional emphasis is needed.

Mechanical street cleaners and crews with hand sweepers will clear bike routes throughout the city.

The department has nearly completed its initial sweeping of sand from 1,531 lane miles of Seattle's main streets and will continue its cleaning work with additional runs along the same major streets and will focus aggressively over the next several days on bike lanes.

The public is asked to heed "No Parking" signs placed to support sweeping.