I just read the article “Winter Storm Prep and Goals Fulfilled” regarding snow removal preparation. But after Winter Storm Fern in late January, the “preparation” just didn’t cut it.
I am appalled at the way snow removal was handled — not just in Prince George’s County, but in surrounding counties as well. Nearly 12 days after the snowfall, people were still struggling to leave their homes for work, supplies and medical care.
Adding to the frustration were streets that were barely passable and roadways left partially cleared for days. It was as if the Department of Public Works and Transportation preferred the snow would simply melt on its own rather than adequately performing its duties.
In the city of Laurel, along Cherry Lane, cars must squeeze toward the center of the road because of poor snow removal. This is happening throughout the area. I came from Lowe’s on Route 1 and had to sit through the traffic light four times to turn onto Cherry Lane. In front of Laurel High School, buses and cars are forced to squeeze past each other.
In West Laurel, near Montgomery County, the same problems persisted. Drivers had to sit through the light at Bond Mill Road and Sandy Spring Road/Route 198 two or three times. The same conditions existed in Columbia and Burtonsville — roads narrowing to a single lane at traffic lights.
I give this year’s snow removal an “F.” That article is incorrect unless standards have significantly dropped. In fact, this has been the worst snow cleanup in the 37 years I have lived in and around Laurel.
Prince George’s County, the City of Laurel and neighboring jurisdictions need to do better in planning and executing snow removal services for residents and their communities.
Randy Cardinal
Retired homeowner, West Laurel