We’ve had it easy so far this winter with less snow and ice than usual. But it’s unrealistic to expect that to last until spring. This time of year is notorious for hazardous winter …
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We’ve had it easy so far this winter with less snow and ice than usual. But it’s unrealistic to expect that to last until spring. This time of year is notorious for hazardous winter weather conditions and we’re likely to see more of it.
Winter reminded us of its presence on Sunday night and into Monday, with snow and ice accumulation mixed with rain.
If the winter season creates hazardous conditions for motorists and pedestrians, it’s our responsibility to mitigate those risks as much as possible and keep everybody safe. Too often after a major snowstorm we see pedestrians walking in the roadway instead of on the sidewalks. It’s not their fault if the sidewalks are covered with snow and ice, but it can be dangerous for pedestrians and motorists alike.
Our towns and villages must do what they can to ensure safe and well-maintained sidewalks for all residents. It’s especially important for those with limited mobility. Residents and businesses usually do their part to keep the space in front of their own properties safe.
It not only keeps people from walking in the road, but studies have shown more sidewalks leads to healthier communities as people are more inclined to walk to places nearby.
Fortunately there are some efforts underway to improve sidewalks in Sullivan County. Road crews are renovating part of East Broadway in Monticello and adding a brand new sidewalk to one side of the road. The East Broadway work is long overdue, and we hope to see improvements to other parts of the county with higher levels of foot traffic.
When it comes to winter weather and our roads, a lot of credit belongs to our town highway departments. While most people are warm and dry at home, they are out working to ensure the roads are cleared and drivable as quickly as possible. They may not always get the recognition they deserve, but we don’t want to imagine our towns without them.
As snow and ice becomes more likely this winter season, lets keep our roads - and sidewalks - clear and safe.
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