Thank you for asking this question. Safety should be of the utmost importance.

I also want to know why city properties even have to be sited for this. Isn't it obvious that those who are responsible for removing snow from city properties have to get out and shovel.

Unfortunately, this is a huge problem.

There also seems to be a problem when it comes to clearing the sidewalks along state owned property like the Lowell Connector at Tanner Street. Who is supposed to clear sidewalks like those along Tanner Street at the Lowell Connector?

I would really appreciate it if someone at the City responded to my question. Clearly, I am not the only person who is interested in the answer.

Owners of abbutting property are responsible for snow removal on sidewalks whether it be the state, the city, a company or a resident. DPD Inspectional Services is responsible for enforcement once a complaint is made.

I appreciate a response, however, no new light has actually been shed on this issue. I am interested in the role of the DPD Inspectional Services and actual steps that they follow (warnings, fees and other consequences). It seems obvious that many of us here (using this site and the opportunity to communicate most easily with public offices) would like to see a more direct response from that department. They should have an official presence on this site. This tool, and any new tool like it, is only effective if there is broad support and use and early buy-in from those whose purpose is to respond to issues raised by it. DPD Inspectional Services have an obligation to be here, to communicate, and to be transparent.

The recent closing of many snow related issues on the site (speaking at least for myself and what I have observed) have had more to do with the work of Mother Nature than to any property owner or DPD efforts. Perhaps the recourse with which DPD responds is not effective at policing these community standards and should be reexamined. But to those of us living in Lowell, it looks like inactivity and unresponsiveness.

We want to be able to walk down the street and not risk our lives in traffic (read the Sun/it's blogs and note the number of pedestrians reportedly hit this winter while trying to navigate city streets). While crime can be tricky beast to curb and control, literally taking care of our curbs and sidewalks should not be such an issue for pedestrians. I walk because I want to but there is a large population in Lowell who walk because the HAVE to. Those people deserve safe travel conditions and these are not impossible or even that difficult to provide. The streets get cleared, and well, in my experience. But sidewalks? You're better off just waiting for spring. Or waiting for the next bus while standing in the street.

Enabling walkability statistically lowers crime rates and I know I'm not the only person who knows this. But this is such a simple way that Lowell can improve and be more hospitable that it pains me to see that it is not dealt with in any transparent or effective manner. This winter was tough, yes, but many people managed to deal with it. But as it seems, at least every third person neglects their property which negates so much of their neighbors' efforts.

There really IS a lot to like about Lowell but good luck getting to it.

Have you tried calling them directly with you question? http://www.lowellma.gov/dpd/devservices/Pages/default.aspx 978-674-4144

No, I have not done so yet. My greater point, however, is the need for that department to be communicating directly with users of this site.

SeeClickFix is marketed as a centralized and systematic way to communicate with the city and for the city to communicate openly with residents. But if there is only one person at the city directing all the inquiries and complaints, it's not a good use of this tool. My goal is not simply an answer to my question but to communicate this all with the community as there are many others on this site interested in the same answer.

My sentiments also.. There is nothing transparent about city government, and certain depts., such as zoning are downright obtuse.

has been resolved