BALTIMORE, MD (November 12, 2019) – Today, Mayor Bernard C. “Jack” Young was joined by Baltimore City Department of Transportation Director Steve Sharkey along with officials from the Baltimore City Departments of Public Works, Recreation and Parks, Fire, Health, Baltimore Housing and the Office of Emergency Management to announce that the City of Baltimore is fully prepared for the upcoming 2019-2020 snow season.

“With winter around the corner, the City of Baltimore has prepared its equipment and trained essential personnel to ensure that we are fully prepared for the upcoming winter season,” said Mayor Young.  “We have assessed previous snow seasons and have taken steps to improve our operations.  Our snow crews are ready to deliver prompt and efficient service to the residents of Baltimore.”   

With a budget of $6.74 million, the City’s snow removal efforts include 294 pieces of equipment, along with 300 contractor apparatuses for efficient snow removal operations.  The city is fully stocked with over 15,000 tons of salt and is equipped with a 36,000 gallon salt brine capacity.

“When inclement weather inevitably hits, the Baltimore City Snow Team will be ready to restore city streets quickly and safely,” said Director Sharkey. “The winter season often brings unpredictable weather, so we encourage everyone to stay safe on the roadways by planning ahead and preparing for snow emergencies.”

Key city agencies provided pertinent information and helpful tips for the public in preparation for inclement weather.  Today’s presentations stressed the importance of being prepared for winter emergencies.  Residents are encouraged to plan ahead by assembling emergency supply kits for both their homes and vehicles before the winter season begins.  Motorists are advised not to drive during a winter storm unless absolutely necessary so that snow crews are better able to treat city streets.

For the fifth winter in a row, the Department of Transportation is coordinating its Youth Snow Shoveling Program that will benefit senior citizens and students throughout Baltimore.  Through this initiative, student workers between the ages of 14 and 21 are linked with senior citizens and disabled residents in their communities who need assistance in clearing snow from their public right of ways/sidewalks. 

After a winter storm, student workers will shovel snow from the public right of ways of elderly and disabled residents who are enrolled in the program.  Students will be deployed to work on days when city schools are closed and will receive a stipend for their efforts.  This beneficial program will help elderly residents throughout the winter season while providing employment opportunities for city youth. 

Seniors and disabled residents, along with city youth who are interested in the program should call 311 for an application.  The deadline for senior registration is quickly approaching on November 15, 2019, and students can apply through January 17, 2020.

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