DPW Defends Snow Removal Efforts

The Department of Public Works (“DPW”) gave a presentation regarding snow and ice removal during which they laid out a list of options of how to improve service levels.

This presentation was a follow up to meetings that occurred this winter in response to an outcry of citizens complaints about DPW’s poor job of snow and ice removal.  During these meetings it was brought up that curb cuts and bus stops are rarely cleared and this disproportionally hurts the elderly and handicapped.  Despite these talks it appeared from the presentation that there hadn’t been much movement on new strategies or efforts to improve service.

Resolution 071176 proposed the vacation of the right-turn bypass at East Pittsburgh Avenue and South Water Street.  This street vacation is intended to support the Transpak redevelopment project in the Fifth Ward.  The mixed-use facility known as South Water Works will include 350,000 square feet of office, entertainment, retail, and residential space.  Initially this resolution was held because of DPW’s concerns about trucks ability to turn the reconstructed corner but after further discussion it was explained that DPW’s initial concerns had been resolved.  This resolution was approved and will now go before the full Common Council.