NYC Sanitation Deputy Commissioner on Snowstorm Response and Road Conditions

Snowstorm Operations and Challenges

• ❄️ Sanitation workers have been working continuously since before dawn, plowing and salting roads during a prolonged, heavy snowstorm.
• ⚠️ The primary challenge has been the persistent snowfall, requiring constant plowing hour after hour to keep roads clear.
• 🗣️ New Yorkers are urged to stay off the roads to allow sanitation crews to perform their work effectively.

Road Clearing Strategy and Scope

• 🗺️ New York City has 19,000 miles of lanes to service, with 2500 plows deployed.
• ⚖️ The Department of Sanitation aims to service every area of the city equitably, with no streets being prioritized over others as in the past.
• 🛠️ Specialized equipment is used for areas with narrow streets or protected bike lanes, acknowledging that conditions vary by neighborhood.

Outlook for Monday Morning

• 🌃 Sanitation crews are working through a 12-hour shift that began at 6 p.m., continuing through the night.
• ✅ While snow will still be present, roads are expected to be open and passable by Monday morning.
• 🚗 Drivers are advised to exercise caution due to remaining snow and ice, even on cleared roads, and to only travel if necessary.