Philadelphia crews push forward in long snow removal effort

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- City officials said Monday they have treated about 85% of Philadelphia's roads at least once following last week's major snowstorm, though they cautioned that significant work remains.

Mayor Cherelle Parker said crews are still pushing to reach every neighborhood.

"We know we are not done yet, Philadelphia. We are not resting. Every minute of the day, we are continuing to move forward until every street is treated from this epic storm," she said.

Contractors have been clearing snow and ice block by block.

Gene DePaul, of Oliveri and Associates, said the effort is far from over. "There's still a battle ahead of us, still a battle ahead of us," he said.

DePaul said the city is sparing no expense to get streets cleared.

"Extremely costly. Extremely costly. Millions and millions of dollars. But the mayor's putting forth the effort, all the city forces are putting forth the effort. The effort's here," DePaul said.

His crews have been working more than 15 hours a day for a week, in what's often a thankless job. He urged residents to do their part by helping clear paths for plows.

"When your neighbor gets stuck down the block, you know, halfway out, maybe go down and shovel so the plow trucks can get down there," he said. "We come to it, and there's a parked car two inches out; they're not getting down to do your block. And then you want to call and complain. Everybody's got to participate and cooperate for it to be successful."

In West Philadelphia, neighbors were doing just that Monday morning, helping a driver free her car from a snow-packed parking spot.

"Very, very hard. But you gotta do it to help your neighbors out," said Gregory Lee.

The driver, Sharon Manigault, added, "All of my neighbors have been so good with helping. That's a good thing. I appreciate you. Thank you so much."

Parker said additional support will arrive on Tuesday.

"We will be deploying 300 Same Day Work and Pay in residential neighborhoods to help clear more streets and more areas," she said.

Parking enforcement will also resume on Tuesday, including meters, time limits and towing of illegally parked vehicles.

City officials also warn drivers that South Broad Street will close at 7 a.m. from Washington Avenue to Oregon Avenue for a snow removal operation, and vehicles must be moved.