As Western New York municipalities gear up for six to 10 inches of snow this evening and through the overnight hours, the question is, ‘Are they ready?’
Speaking Monday for the City of Buffalo, Public Works Commissioner Mike Finn said yes, but also noted, “We’re still in leaf mode, as much of the region is as well. There are still leaves on some trees that we’re going to have to be picking up after the storm. However…we are prepared for this storm and have our equipment ready.”
Ready, according to Finn, includes 90% of city equipment. For tonight, that means 20 snow plows with more standing by, and additional crews being brought in to work the evening and overnight hours.
Though Finn isn’t expecting any issues with snow removal, Mayor Byron Brown has been in touch with Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz and New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, and said both are ready to offer aid.
For parking tonight, the city’s year-round alternate side restrictions remain in effect. Winter parking and bus route restrictions will take effect November 15. For driving tomorrow, Brown shared this warning:
“We will have potentially significant snowfall on the ground. And we’re encouraging people to take your time, to go a little earlier, to be able to get to work on time, to be able to get to school on time, and to exercise caution on the roadway.”
Another message for residents from the city: be patient. Finn said bagged leaf pickup and debris clearing, still left from the recent wind storm that knocked down trees across the city, will continue once the snow is cleared.
