C

ity officials told The Press in emails Tuesday that the city was well prepared for the 10-14 inches of snow and sleet we eventually recieved over the weekend.

Public Works Director Mike Alkhal said despite bone-chilling temperatures that required multiple passes on side streets, city teams managed to plow all roads within 8 to 12 hours of the storm’s end. By Monday daybreak, all main roads and most secondary streets were in good condition, and crews continued to work on clearing missed alleys and widening intersections.

Emergency Services and Public Safety

Public safety officials praised residents for staying off the roads, which allowed first responders to operate without major delays. Fire Chief Matthew J. Griffin said the department was fortunate to avoid any large-scale emergencies during the peak of the storm.

The Bethlehem Police Department remained active throughout the emergency:

•Vehicle Relocation: 48 vehicles were towed from emergency routes, while over 100 owners moved their vehicles voluntarily after being contacted.

•Call Volume: From Sunday morning to Monday morning, police responded to 131 calls, including 23 disabled vehicles and five crashes.

Business and Parking Recovery

While most businesses with Monday hours were able to open, the city is moving aggressively to restore downtown parking. To address the lack of space caused by massive snowbanks, the city initiated around-the-clock snow removal from metered streets in the business districts since Monday. Please be alert for temporary road closures and follow posted restrictions so crews can safely and effectively remove snow from the streets.

Looking Ahead: Another Storm?

With EPAWA forecasting another potential storm for next weekend, the city remains on high alert. Alkhal noted that while the city will be ready, concerns are growing regarding rock salt supplies due to slow deliveries and high demand.

“Should a significant snowstorm occur next weekend, plowing it will not be the issue, but we will have to continue or expand snow removal,” Alkhal warned, citing the lack of expected melting this week.

Community

Resources

& Guidelines

As the cleanup continues, city officials are asking residents to follow these safety guidelines:

•Hydrant Access: Chief Griffin asks residents who are physically able to clear snow from fire hydrants near their property.

•Student Safety: The Bethlehem Area School District Snow Crew partnership encourages neighbors to dig out paths on street corners, so students do not have to walk in the streets.

•Accessible Ramps: Residents are reminded that the abutting property owner is responsible for clearing access ramps to ensure safe passage to the roadway.

•Plow Damage: If your property is damaged by a city plow, contact the Bethlehem Service Center by phone 610-865-7000 or Email bethlehemservicecenter@bethlehem-pa.gov, available 24/7. Ensure the vehicle is a marked City of Bethlehem unit before calling.

•Snow Disposal: Shoveling snow into public streets is strictly prohibited and illegal. The BPD will issue citations to those who create hazardous conditions by throwing snow back into plowed roadways.

The Lehigh County Coroner’s Office & Forensics Center has reported that three deaths occurred Sunday in association with snow shoveling and snow removal activity. Lehigh County CoronerDaniel A. Buglio said the manner of death in all three cases has been ruled natural.

“I remind the public to use caution when shoveling snow, take frequent breaks, stay hydrated, avoid overexertion, and seek assistance when possible, especially individuals with a history of heart disease or other medial concern.” No additional information is being released at this time.