By ZAHRA KHAN
With winter approaching, the New York City Department of Sanitation on Thursday laid out strict guidelines to make sure that pandemic outdoor dining structures not interfere with efficient snow and ice removal from the city streets.
“The fact is, this is a year like no other, and we are all in it together,” said Acting Sanitation Commissioner Edward Grayson. “Businesses have adapted incredibly quickly to the challenges of 2020, just like the dedicated men and women of the Department of Sanitation, and our workforce is committed to our critical role in snow response operations. We are working with other city agencies like the Department of Transportation and the Department of Small Business Services to make sure that these establishments hosting outdoor dining setups are prepared for snow season”
DSNY issued an alert stating snowplows have started practice runs, making sure plows can fit safely with jerrybuilt dining structures spilling out on the streets.
“If businesses help us by fulfilling their obligations to clear snow and ice, and by keeping roadways clear outside of their approved structures, we can all have a safe and successful winter” Grayson added.
Business owners have to conform to the rules set by DSNY in keeping the streets as wide as possible.
The city has opted for the sodium brine solution as compared to the salt in combination with calcium chloride this year. Sodium brine which will be used as an anti-icing measure to further help prevent dangerous road conditions.
Brine can be dangerous for cars since it not only stays on roads but also on the underside of your car.
“Make common-sense choices to ensure the safety of DSNY operators, patrons, and passersby,” said DNYC in the statement.
The DSNY is set to start a night plowing exercise beginning November.
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