Photo: Spencer Platt / Getty Images News / Getty Images
New York City is slowly getting back to normal after a historic two-day blizzard buried the five boroughs under nearly two feet of snow — and in some places, even more.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani says all local, limited, and express buses are running again as of Wednesday, though riders should expect delays. Staten Island, which received nearly two-and-a-half feet of snow — the most of any borough — is seeing reduced bus service. The Staten Island Ferry has returned to a regular schedule, and NYC Ferry is running on a modified weekday schedule with staggered start times by route.
According to Spectrum News, subway service is running citywide with some delays and modifications. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has pulled longer accordion-style buses off the road, replacing them with standard 40-foot buses. Riders across all transit systems are urged to allow extra travel time and check mta.info for real-time updates.
Mayor Mamdani is urging New Yorkers to dig out their cars now, before the snow hardens into ice. Alternate side-of-the-street parking remains suspended through Sunday, though parking meters are still in effect.
Garbage collection resumes today on the 6 p.m. shift, with recycling pickups set to return on Monday, March 2nd. As reported by Documented NY, the Department of Sanitation is prioritizing trash and compost pickup, and residents should place those items curbside on their regular collection day. The city expects trash, recycling, and compost collection to be delayed through Saturday.
Property owners are also reminded that they are legally required to clear sidewalks in front of their buildings, creating a path at least four feet wide. Failure to do so within the required timeframe could result in a fine of up to $250. Corner properties must also clear access to crosswalks and pedestrian ramps.
Warming centers remain open across the city as temperatures stay low. City officials are encouraging anyone who needs relief from the cold to visit a designated warming center location.
Citi Bike service has returned with limited access to some stations — riders may need to try multiple docking stations to pick up or return a bike.
New York City public schools reopened Tuesday after students got their first traditional snow day since 2019 on Monday. City buildings have also reopened for in-person services.
The blizzard was the heaviest snowfall to hit the city since 2016. Cleanup and recovery efforts are expected to continue through the rest of the week.
Photo Credit: Getty Images