Calling for a snow removal plan for non-drivers

Written by: Alisa Grishman, Access Mob Pittsburgh

Too often, when we talk about Disability in the media and in newsletters, it’s all doom and gloom. Sad stories about sad people going through distressing circumstances. At Pittsburgh Walks, we are seeking to change that narrative. In our newsletter, we celebrate Disability Joy while keeping you up to date on wins from around the region.

Back in January, Pittsburgh was hit by a massive snowstorm that, due to a lack of appropriate shoveling by property owners and plows moving snow onto curb ramps, left many disabled people trapped in their homes for weeks.

Access Mob Pittsburgh partnered with Pittsburgh Walks, BikePGH, and Pittsburghers for Public Transit to write a sign-on letter to City Council and Mayor O’Connor demanding a Snow Removal Plan for Non-Drivers.

In March, Councilperson Barb Warwick had legislation pass unanimously through City Council that calls for a “Right-of-Way Accessibility Needs Inventory.” With this inventory, the City hopes to get an accurate picture of the use of various infrastructure, such as curb cuts and transit stops, and to map the locations of private accessible parking spots and amenities, such as schools, daycares, business districts, and other areas that require free and clear sidewalk access.

This is a great start, but data is only useful if people act on it to create policy and change. In the months ahead, the Pittsburgh Walks newsletter will share information about what’s happening with this legislation and how you can help the City adopt a formal Snow Removal Plan for Non-Drivers.

The 76 bus waits at a stop piled with snow on the Boulevard of the Allies