Mystery

A few blocks from our house is the main road north from the center of town, which has two lanes for vehicles, a bicycle lane on each side, and a walkway next to that.

Recently some black, plastic somethings were placed along the bushes that separate the bike lane from the traffic.  Are these to protect the bushes from the salt on the road?  To prevent the plows from damaging them?  Will there really be enough snow for plows?