Mayor James Davis has advised Bayonne residents to prepare for Winter Storm Gail, expected on Wednesday, Dec. 16, and Thursday, Dec. 17. Heavy winds and significant snowfall are expected.
“There is potential for over a foot of snow for Bayonne along with very strong winds,” Davis said in a robo-call to the city. “Yesterday, I met with all city department heads to ensure our readiness, and I initiated our snow emergency plan.”
He continued: “Once the snow starts falling, our DPW crews will be out in force to plow and salt our streets. In order for these crews to perform their work, I ask that everyone please refrain from driving during the storm, as this will help them get their job done properly.”
According to Davis, it is illegal to shovel snow into the streets and makes DPW’s job more difficult.
Davis advised residents to check in on their friends and neighbors who are elderly or have special needs. For updates from the city, follow the Bayonne Office of Emergency Management (OEM) on social media.
“Bayonne has endured quite a bit this year, and we are stronger than ever,” Davis said. “I am confident that we will get through this challenge with a sense of community and cooperation.”
Snow restrictions
No parking will be allowed on the east side of Broadway from 5th Street to 48th Street from 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 16, through 3 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 17.
No parking will be allowed in front of City Hall or Shop Rite from 3 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 16, through 3 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 17.
Shop Rite is on the west side of Avenue C between 25th and 26th Streets. City Hall is on the east side of Avenue C between 27th and 28th Streets.
The recycling schedule for Thursday, Dec, 17, will be announced on Wednesday Dec. 16.
Parking in Board of Education schoolyards will not be allowed until those yards have been cleared of snow. An announcement will be made when parking in the schoolyards is available.
Businesses and residents who have fire hydrants in front of their buildings should shovel around the hydrants.
If heavy winds knock electric lines onto a street, do not touch the wires. Report the locations of downed power lines to the city by calling 9-1-1.
Safety tips
OEM encouraged residents to prepare for “blizzard-like conditions” and to avoid traveling during the storm.
Do not drive unless absolutely necessary. If you must drive, drive slowly. Watch out for children and other vehicles.
Traffic lights may be put on blinker. Proceed with caution through intersections. Do not double park or interfere with plowing.
Follow the directions of emergency personnel.
Municipal ordinances require property owners to remove ice and snow from the sidewalks or to salt and sand instead. Removal is required unless the ice or snow is so frozen as to make removal impractical.
The ordinance requires shoveling, salting, or sanding within 24 hours of daylight after snowfall or ice formation.
According to OEM, the possibility of scattered power outages is high, due to anticipated strong winds. Ensure cellphones and flashlights are charged.
For updates on this and other stories, check www.hudsonreporter.com and follow us on Twitter @hudson_reporter. Daniel Israel can be reached at disrael@hudsonreporter.com.
