City Council pushing for snow ordinance change

By Ana Bottary

abottary@abc6.com

@anabottary

With snow expected this weekend, the Department of Public Works in Providence is reminding residents that clearing walkways outside of their homes is their responsibility.
 
"To do that many streets with the resources we have in house is really nearly impossible. That’s why we need to community to work together and come together to clean those sidewalks," says Providence DPW Director Russell Knight.
 
Right now, Providence residents have eight daylight hours after a snow storm to clear a path of at least three feet wide on sidewalks or they face a fine from $25 to $500. The response hasn’t been great in years past and as a result, the City Council may change the ordinance. If it’s not done by the homeowner, the Department of Public Works will go in and clear the snow and then bill the homeowner. Providence resident, Jim Green, says he keeps his sidewalks clear and he thinks fines will help to drive the message home.
 
"I walk all of the time, I don’t have a car so I do appreciate the sidewalks that are cleared by the homeowners. It’s dangerous if they build up ice. Being older it’s easier for me to slip and fall," says Green.
 
Over in Pawtucket, the City Council is also looking to change its ordinance.
 
"Right now in Pawtucket, you have 12 hours of daylight after the snow fall to clear your sidewalk. If you don’t the fine is $25," says Barney Heath, Director of Planning and Zoning.

In Warwick, a first offense is just a warning. Repeat offenders get a fine from $125 to $250. 

In Cranston, residents have 24 hours after a snow fall, but every hour after that they will be fined $20.

© WLNE-TV 2016