A winter storm has been hitting big chunks of the United States over the last few days. For me, in Boston, it’s just a small accumulation. That’s enough to cause a nuisance and snarl the morning commute.
For me, one test of compliance is snow shoveling. Did my neighbors shovel their sidewalks so people can pass safely?
I live in a neighborhood where there are lots of walkers. The elementary school is just down the street and most kids walk to school. Many people in the neighborhood walk to the nearby bus stops and train station for their commute into Boston. Property owners should clear their sidewalks. It’s the right thing to do.
Of course, being in the suburbs many people just drive everywhere. They think the strip of concrete between their house and the street is merely a place to put the barrels on trash-day. That potentially endangers pedestrians who may be forced into the street or may slip and fall on the uncleared sidewalk.
My town has contemplated enactment of shoveling ordinance, making it an offense if your sidewalk is not shoveled within 24 hours after the end of the storm. The ordinance would turn an ethics issue into a compliance issue.
What do you shovel first, your driveway or your sidewalk? What’s more important to you? To your neighbors?