Sheepshead Bay residents say snow-covered sidewalks pose safety risk
Several neighbors say the sidewalks bordering the property owned by the Kings Bay Youth Organization remain buried under heavy snow, forcing pedestrians into the street to get around.
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Residents along 2670 Coyle St. say navigating snow-packed sidewalks has become both a winter obstacle course and a serious safety concern, nearly nine days after the city’s recent winter storm.
Several neighbors say the sidewalks bordering the property owned by the Kings Bay Youth Organization remain buried under heavy snow, forcing pedestrians into the street to get around.
“It is so much easier to walk in the street and avoid the cars than it is to try to walk on this,” said neighbor Ralph, who adds that he has a fractured back. “That’s why I walk in the street.”
Despite the passage of more than a week since the storm, residents say the conditions have not improved. Snow reportedly remains piled up to a foot high around the property.
“Look at it, it’s terrible,” said neighbor Vincent Torre. “There’s a foot of snow all the way around and they don’t even consider shoveling. No matter if it’s two inches, ten, or twelve - it doesn’t matter.”
Neighbors also say they’ve repeatedly reported the issue through the city’s 311 system, with little response. More than 10 complaints have reportedly been filed, some of which remain unresolved.
“There was a 311 complaint I submitted Jan. 27,” said resident Lynn. “That was over a week ago and the complaint is still open. What is the reason that they’re not cleaning up the sidewalk?”
News 12 reached out to Robert Mazzuchin, president of the Kings Bay Youth Organization, who cited limited resources as the reason for the delay.
“We don’t have the resources, the expenses,” Mazzuchin said. “When it’s reasonable and the snow starts to melt, we can get volunteers out there.”
Moments after that conversation, a volunteer plow truck arrived on scene and began clearing the sidewalks. According to Mazzuchin, the volunteer was sent by him and will continue plowing until the sidewalks around the baseball field are fully cleared.
For residents who have spent days navigating icy conditions, the sudden action was a welcome sight, but many say they hope it won’t take public pressure for sidewalks to be cleared in the future.
