Access free sand and keep your sidewalks safe
City continues Community Sandboxes Program with changes
After a review and public consultation, the City of Edmonton decided to continue the Community Sandbox Program with only 100 public sandbox locations for the 2024-25 season.
The program provides free, dry sand at designated locations for use on icy sidewalks and walkways. This is intended for individual, residential use — including community leagues — but not for businesses and contractors.
Freeze-and-thaw cycles in winter make for icy roads and sidewalks, making them dangerous for pedestrians and vehicles alike. While a fall on ice may be unpleasant and embarrassing for some, for others it can be life-altering. Falls cause 85 per cent of seniors’ injury-related hospitalizations. They can result in chronic pain, reduced mobility, loss of independence, and even death.
It’s important that residents keep their sidewalks clear of snow and ice to keep them safe and accessible for everyone. Keeping up on snow removal can be a challenge for some, but ice is even trickier: It is difficult to chip it away and, as snow melts under the sun during the day, water seeps onto sidewalks and freezes again overnight. Sometimes all you can do to keep up is use something gritty like sand or kitty litter for traction.
The change in sandbox locations allows more resources to be dedicated to improving snow and ice control for active pathways, including bus stops and public amenities. The larger bins are easier and quicker to refill so they are a more reliable source of sand for residents.
However, this means that you may not find a sandbox at your local league anymore. Some lost access, but found different solutions: Instead of going without a sandbox, Elmwood Park Community League decided to manage and pay for their own box for their community members.
Sand is also available at the ecostations. Remember you need to bring your own container when you visit your local community sandbox, large sand bin location or roadway maintenance yard (and please do not drive into the yards).
Tips for keeping yourself safe and upright this winter
Wear footwear with a good tread made of natural rubber or put ice grippers on your footwear.
Carry a resealable bag with sand or kitty litter to sprinkle on icy paths.
Walk like a penguin! Point your feet outward.
Use ski or walking poles or a cane for extra stability and balance.
Step on snow or grass for better traction.
Sand locations in central Edmonton
7507 Borden Park Road – Northeast corner of parking lot near outdoor swimming pool and tennis courts
10517 95 St. – Central Maintenance Yard
11803 86 St. – Eastwood Community League, northeast side of league at the north end of the parking stalls
12139 105 St. – Westwood Community League, east side of league just inside parking lot near sidewalk
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