David Burnhnas & Hilary See Digging out Their Cars on the E. Promenade

Some Found Skiing an Easier Way to Get Around on the E. Prom

By Carol McCracken  (Post # 672)

“It’s been a significant blizzard affecting Portland and  its transportation systems all day.  The storm began yesterday afternoon.  The department of public services had been preparing the streets,  the  Hills and intersections for several hours before the storm hit,” said Michael J. Bobinsky, Director of Public Services, for Portland late this afternoon.  “Public Services personnel have pretreated the streets with salt and sometimes sand,” he said. “There were wind gusts of up to 50 miles an hour last night. Struggles with the wind created visibility problems for drivers, equipment operators and pedestrians.”

According to Mark Spiller, operations coodinator for the department, the  snow drifts  on the roads  have been especially troublesome in places such as the Munjoy Hill area, Baxter Boulevard, Riverside Street, and out Congress Street by UNUM. That accounts for the snowy areas on the Eastern Promenade found at both ends of the Prom.  The middle section was clear of snow this afternoon. MHN.com found High Street to be clear of any snow on a quick tour of the area.  Spiller said he was unaware of any power outages in Portland.

Bobinsky said that the Metro Bus canceled servives today out of concern for the safety of passengers waiting for busses.  The City decided to go ahead and collect trash today for those on the regular Monday pickup.  “It has been a difficult day for our employees and they did a great job,” he said.

“How many days are there until spring?” Bobinsky asked.  “I’m counting,” he said laughing.

Please visit www.portlandmaine.gov  and click on parking ban for the latest details.