Snow Cleanup in Harlem and The Bronx
When the heaviest snow seen in New York City hit earlier this month, the sanitation department worked to clean streets and clear up intersections. Thousands of workers were reported to have been deployed in keeping the roads safe and transportation running across the five boroughs.
However, neighborhoods like Harlem and The Bronx, have been reported by residents to have a slow and dangerous cleanup, this has affected commutes to work and school.
Train Cleanup Difficulties
As a Harlem resident and High School senior, I’ve experienced firsthand how inaccessible some streets and sidewalks have become. Large piles of snow continue to be pushed against the curbs and sidewalks many days after the storm. In some cases, snow has been piled in front of the subway entrances, making it difficult to step over to enter the station.
When it comes to students who walk to school early, these conditions make it very dangerous. Slippery and unclean sidewalks make it more difficult for pedestrians to walk safely. Some students have struggled to cross the street without slipping or having clothing wet from the snow.
Cleanup Contrast
Meanwhile, in areas like the World Trade Center and other parts of Lower Manhattan, sidewalks and streets have little to no snow after the storm. These areas are major districts and tourist destinations which have more accessibility for pedestrians.
The contrast have raised major debate on whether certain neighborhoods receive more thorough snow cleanup than others. Harlem and parts of the Bronx are predominantly Black and Latino communities while downtown business districts and wealthier neighborhoods have a larger white population.
The Process of Snow Removal
According to the city’s Department of Sanitation, plows are prioritized in areas with major roadways and emergency routes, followed by residential streets. Those who own property are responsible for cleaning sidewalks in front of their building or face being fined. However, when sidewalks are not cleared properly, students, elderly residents and those with disabilities face the consequences.
Safety Concerns
When it comes to Harlem and the Bronx, the issue is more than inconvenient to residents, it’s about safety and accessibility for those who use wheelchairs and parents with strollers. Ice streets increase the chances of an accident happening. Many agree that all neighborhoods deserve the same level of attention, especially when it comes to safety.
Looking further
As winter continues, residents hope for more consistency and attention to areas that are overlooked. For students in Harlem and the Bronx. the goal is for safer and clear paths to school, and public transportation no matter which borough your from.