Snow Removal and Winter Operations Flashcards

What is the 'Sanitation Scorecard' used for in relation to NYC's snow removal performance?

Answer: Tracking how quickly each community board district is plowed after a storm

The Sanitation Scorecard tracks and publicly reports how efficiently each community board district is plowed during snow events, promoting accountability.

Why does DSNY use brine (liquid salt) rather than only dry salt for pre-treatment?

Answer: Brine adheres to the road surface better and activates faster than dry salt

Brine sticks to pavement better than dry salt and begins de-icing action immediately, providing more effective pre-storm protection.

What does 'snow emergency route' designation mean for parking in NYC?

Answer: Vehicles must be moved from designated snow emergency routes during declared emergencies

During a declared snow emergency in NYC, all vehicles must be cleared from designated snow emergency routes to allow unobstructed plow access.

Which DSNY operation involves removing accumulated snow piles from curbs after a storm ends?

Answer: Snow carting

Snow carting is the post-storm operation where DSNY loads and hauls accumulated snow piles from streets and curbs to prevent flooding as snow melts.

How does DSNY notify the public about upcoming Snow Alerts and collection suspensions?

Answer: Via NYC.gov, Notify NYC alerts, social media, and official press releases

DSNY uses NYC.gov updates, Notify NYC push alerts, social media, and press releases to inform the public about snow alerts, collection suspensions, and operational changes.

What is the primary environmental concern associated with heavy rock salt use on NYC streets?

Answer: Salt runoff can damage vegetation, harm aquatic life, and contaminate freshwater sources

Rock salt runoff is a known environmental hazard that can kill street trees, damage soil, and pollute local waterways and freshwater ecosystems.