The result is that during snowy weather like we're experiencing this week, the sidewalks become an obstacle course for pedestrians. Many seniors and people with disabilities find it unsafe or impossible to leave the house at all under these conditions. Snow and ice on sidewalks also cause problems for families with strollers or young children, and create barriers for people catching buses.
Photo: John Greenfield
The transportation advocacy group Better Streets Chicago, which formed last year (Streetsblog Chicago co-editor Courtney Cobbs is a founding member) is trying to change that dynamic. They've launched a new campaign and petition to exhort the city of Chicago to take charge of winter sidewalk clearance.
"The reality of how we clear snow in our city tells a story about our priorities that’s all too familiar," the group stated. "One block [of sidewalk] might be clear, the next covered in snow and ice. Mounds of snow get piled up at bus stops blocking access for transit users. Crosswalks get plowed in under piles of snow and slush. The public has few options to remedy the issue, and city departments play the blame game."
This is the difference between being trapped at home for a week and having the freedom to go get groceries for many in our communities. @48Ward
It’s time for @Chicago to take municipal responsibility for sidewalk snow removal.
"It is time for the city of Chicago to stop shirking its responsibility to those who do not drive and begin clearing public sidewalks," Better Streets declared. The group has launched a petition demanding that the city prepare a plan and allocate the resources to make municipal sidewalk snow clearance happen by next winter. So far they've collected almost 1,250 signatures. Sign the petition here.
In addition to editing Streetsblog Chicago, John writes about transportation and other topics for additional local publications. A Chicagoan since 1989, he enjoys exploring the city on foot, bike, bus, and 'L' train.
Saturday's event was a reminder that there's no better way to get to know a neighborhood than taking a walk with others, enjoying live music, and supporting local businesses.