Photo: zhengshun tang / Moment / Getty Images
Albany's snow removal efforts are entering their final phase, two weeks after a major winter storm blanketed the New York capital with approximately 15 inches of snow on January 25-26.
Mayor Dorcey Applyrs announced Friday that the cleanup process could take up to two more weeks to complete, with crews now focusing on clearing crosswalks and walkways to ensure neighborhood accessibility.
"We continue to get calls about snow removal challenges, and so we continue to be as proactive as we possibly can," said Mayor Applyrs during a press conference. "The next one to two weeks will be critical in the response because we want people to be able to fully access streets, sidewalks and crosswalks."
Department of General Services Director Sergio Panunzio acknowledged the significant work still ahead, particularly in removing what has largely turned into curb-bound accumulations of ice. City workers have already cleared over 23,000 cubic yards of snow with 208 employees and 12 contractors working in 12-hour shifts.
The mayor noted that the cleanup process has been slowed by several factors, including the need for cooperation from vehicle owners and limited availability of outside vendors who were occupied in other municipalities during the storm.
Hundreds of residents had their vehicles towed during the snow emergency that began on January 27. In response to public frustration, Mayor Applyrs announced the city would waive parking ticket fines issued between 8 p.m. and midnight on that first night. However, towing fees paid to private companies will not be refunded.
"Simply put, we don't ever want to tow your car," said Police Chief Brendan Cox, who joined the mayor in urging residents to sign up for Nixle, an alert system used by the police department to inform the public about municipal directives such as snow emergencies.
Residents experiencing snow-related issues are encouraged to report them using the SeeClickFix service available on the city's website. The Neighborhood and Community Services Line is also available for additional concerns.
As cleanup continues, city officials are already preparing for future storms by reviewing their response to this event and planning necessary adjustments to improve practices during future snow events.