A message from Town Manager James Manni:
Since before the blizzard even hit, we have been in regular, if not constant contact with the State and other 38 municipalities in Rhode Island to coordinate the storm response. We, in South Kingstown, are struggling with challenges felt by all of the other cities and towns, as we all attempt to secure additional but scarce resources needed to assist in snow removal.
As you are aware, this blizzard is unprecedented in terms of the vast quantity of snow that fell. Traditional snow removal equipment is unable to handle this challenge, making it more difficult to quickly clear roads. The Town does have limited heavy equipment (payloaders, etc.) and these machines have been deployed since the onset of the storm. Essential personnel have also worked non-stop, up to twenty hours a day, to clear the snow. With 150 miles of town roads and the geographic area of this town, it will take time, but we are making substantial progress each hour.
Our primary focus was on our main roads, which are essentially cleared at this point. Since last evening we have been concentrating on secondary roads and neighborhoods, and as of this morning, we are about 75% complete.
The severity of this historic blizzard meant it would be a multi-day effort in terms of clean-up.
We have received some emergency assistance from the Rhode Island National Guard via RIEMA, for which we are grateful. RIEMA is securing heavy equipment from other states to assist municipalities, but South Kingstown is not waiting. We have secured two contractors with heavy equipment, and they are already out there working diligently.
I recognize the frustration residents are feeling, but I can assure you that our personnel could not be working any harder than they already are to get the job done. Your continued patience is very much appreciated. Please follow our updates on the Town’s Facebook page and website.