City Councilor Ed Flynn writes a letter to Mayor Wu and Chief of Streets Nick Gove about snow removal in District 2
Dear Mayor Wu and Chief Gove,
I’m writing today to highlight feedback from my neighbors and constituents in District 2 regarding the city’s response to the significant snowstorm that occurred on Sunday, January 25th, and well into Monday, January 26th. First, I would like to thank our dedicated city employees who worked under very difficult circumstances to try and shovel our city out from nearly 20 inches of snow. They continue to work tirelessly around the clock under freezing temperatures to not only plow our streets, but also to clear city property on sidewalks, parks and handicap ramps.
At the same time, more than previous storms that we’ve experienced during my time at the Council, I’ve received dozens of calls, emails, and letters from residents and businesses asking their elected officials and public servants to find areas to improve our response. Specifically, residents and businesses emphasized that when we implement a parking ban during snow emergencies, it is critical that those routes be cleared as close as possible to the curb so that when the ban ends – residents are then able to return and park their cars along those routes (such as the entirety of East and West First Street in South Boston.) When we previously had a difficult storm in 2018, the City notified the community that additional snow removal needed to occur along some of these routes, and used snow removal equipment to allow for additional travel and parking space on L Street. Many residents have echoed calls for a similar response to the winter of 2015, when many two-way streets were turned one-way for weeks.
I’ve also heard from South End residents on the ability of cars to safely navigate Tremont Street, and bus stop islands filled with snow. Back Bay businesses and residents contacted me regarding the conditions of Huntington Ave, reporting an ambulance couldn’t reach a building from Blagden St or Huntington Ave due to the road conditions, and was forced to come from Exeter St with a stretcher down the block.
At this time, based on the feedback I continue to receive from our seniors, persons with disabilities, young families with strollers, I’m respectfully requesting that the City of Boston pursue purchasing snow melting machines, or any other pertinent equipment. I’ve read reports that New York City has used melting hot tubs for nearly 20 years, with 8 currently in use, to melt 60-120 tons of snow per hour. I’ve also inquired with state partners at Massport on this issue. On account of the concerns I’ve heard on public safety, accessibility, and quality of life – I believe it is critical that we deliver these enhanced basic city services to support both our neighbors and Boston’s economy as well.
Sincerely,
Ed Flynn
Boston City Councilor, District 2
