NYC Issues 150 Snow Shoveling Fines on Staten Island Post-Storm
New York City officials have issued 150 snow shoveling fines on Staten Island following a recent winter storm. This enforcement is part of a broader effort, with approximately 4,000 summonses issued citywide since Sunday evening.
Snow Shoveling Mandates and Responsibilities
The Department of Sanitation mandates that property and business owners maintain clear and safe pedestrian walkways. This includes clearing snow and ice from sidewalks to provide a four-foot-wide path for pedestrians. Joshua Goodman, deputy commissioner for public affairs and customer experience, emphasized the importance of this responsibility. He noted that ensuring safe access is crucial for the city’s 8.5 million residents.
Fines for Snow Removal Violations
The fines for failing to comply with snow removal regulations range from $100 to $150 for initial violations. Subsequent violations can incur penalties of $150 to $350.
Impact of Recent Weather
Following the storm that deposited between 5 to 6 inches of snow across Staten Island, complaints regarding unshoveled sidewalks surged. Residents, like one in Oakwood Beach, documented the issue, highlighting neglected walkways at key intersections.
Regional Snowfall Variations
Snow totals varied significantly across the broader region:
- Newark Airport: 2.4 inches
- John F. Kennedy Airport: 2.6 inches
- Munchen: nearly 5 inches
- Plainfield: 4.7 inches
- Cranford: 4.5 inches
These discrepancies illustrate the varying impact of the storm across different areas, with Staten Island experiencing some of the highest totals.