Icy streets and unplowed roads frustrate Philadelphia residents

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — Several days after the latest snowstorm, residents across Philadelphia are still struggling with icy, unplowed streets and sidewalks that are making it difficult to get around.

Many side streets remain untouched, and what snow is left has frozen solid, creating hazardous conditions for drivers and pedestrians alike.

On the 700 block of Pemberton Street in South Philadelphia, thick snow and ice were blocking the street on Thursday, and residents said they have been unable to leave their homes.

“We’re just kind of desperate to get this snow moved,” resident Corey Lerch said. “We all have garages here, all our cars are parked in there and we have no way of getting out, getting to work, picking kids up.”

Lerch said he saw a plow pass through on Monday but leave quickly without clearing the area.

“You can see the tracks right here. You can definitely fit a small plow or a small bobcat through here – snowblower or whatever it might take,” Lerch said.

Lerch said he is especially concerned about elderly neighbors and recorded video of some struggling to walk on the icy street.

“Absolutely at our wits’ end with the city. We tried 311… 311 told us to call 911, which is kind of crazy if you think about that,” he said.

The problems are widespread across the city. In Mayfair, a school bus became stuck on the 3100 block of Sterling Street on Thursday morning.

In Point Breeze, some main roads remain snow-covered, though city crews were seen clearing walkways and fire hydrants near 20th and Christian streets.

In Fitler Square, more unplowed roads made for a difficult commute for students and parents.

“It’s really bad,” said Schyler VanBalen.

His father, David VanBalen, said he has seen no city plows in the neighborhood.

“I’ve not seen any plows at all. All of what you see here is either from residents shoveling or just from traffic driving over the snow,” he said.

VanBalen said his son’s public school entrance was shoveled by the principal.

“He shoveled a path to the school so students could get in in person today, which is great,” he said. “He had two days of remote school, which I would think they would be able to clear it by Wednesday at the latest.”

On Thursday afternoon, the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers called on the School District of Philadelphia to return to remote learning, citing treacherous commutes and dangerous building conditions.

In response, the district said, “The safety and well-being of our students, staff, and families remains our top priority. The School District of Philadelphia and City of Philadelphia officials have been working around the clock to clear snow and ice from roads and walkways to support a safe return to in-person learning following the recent winter weather and extended closure period.”

Icy streets and unplowed roads frustrate Philadelphia residents

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