Two days after the Blizzard of 2026, this one’s a no-brainer.
Our Department of Public Works was all over that snow.
Manning 17 trucks — each filled with 8 tons of sand and salt — they cleared over 120 miles of town streets, making multiple trips over 48 hours.
They’re also responsible for clearing 24 miles of sidewalks, though that will take longer.
Before the first flakes fell, they even took time to record this video, explaining what they do, and how they do it.
First responders were on high alert too. They were ready for anything, and everything.
As soon as the snow stopped falling, firefighters fanned out. They began shoveling around hydrants. It’s a job residents should do — but our Fire Department makes certain it gets done.
Here’s a typical scene, from Center Street:
(Photo/Bob Weingarten)
Bottom line: We knew there would be a blizzard.
It came.
But thanks to our amazing Highway Department, DPW and Fire Department, we’re already back close to normal.
Our entire town’s hats are off to you, for your amazing work.
Now get some rest!
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PS: This just in from Kevin Desjardins, moments before we posted the story above:
“I’d like to nominate all the people who have taken time to plow a path (no matter how small) along the sidewalks in front of their houses.
“While residents are not obligated to do so, this act of kindness for the community is greatly appreciated, and provides temporary safe walking conditions until the DPW crews can finish clearing the sidewalks.
“It’s acts like these that make me feel like 🎶 We’re all in this together 🎶…. even if it is just my morning commute to work!”
Myrtle Avenue sidewalk. (Photo/Kevin Desjardins)
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Is there a background on why residents are not obligated to clear their sidewalks? Is it simply because it was always just done and it never felt like there was a need for an ordinance, or was there pushback when the town tried to implement one at some point?
Based on my own experience, albeit in other snow-prone states, it’s a very strange thing, especially given the relative frequency of snow here in New England.
Well said Dan. A huge thank you to DPW & the Fire Department. They did a great job!
A. Big thank you our wonderful Dpw our fire and police department and our wonderful town hall employees and human services department as a former rtm member working with all of them they all do more then a wonderful job
Just wanted to thank everyone for all their hard work.