Melrose Ready For Saturday's Storm

MELROSE, MA — Armed with a fleet of workers ready to go, the City of Melrose on Friday said it's prepared to handle whatever Saturday's potentially historic snowstorm brings.

With 2 feet of snow and overpowering wind gusts possible in the Boston area, Melrose's Department of Public Works was confident in meeting what what may come.

"Melrose is committed to working safely and effectively to clear the City streets of snow on Saturday," DPW Director Elena Proakis Ellis said in a statement provided to Patch Friday.

Some communities have been preaching patience due to a snow plow driver shortage, but Proakis Ellis said things are covered here.

"In response to the state-wide operator shortage, we developed a plan that ensures all City routes will be covered, including schools and municipal buildings," she said. "Our greatest strength is our loyal and dedicated staff of 31 in-house operators, 14 building custodians, and 32 contractors. Together, we share a hopeful outlook that we will overcome any challenges that Saturday’s snowstorm could bring."

Proakis Ellis said the city is still welcoming applications to drive in Melrose, offering "a significant hourly rate that’s competitive with surrounding communities."

To give plows space, the city has a parking ban in effect until Sunday at noon. On-street parking is prohibited during the parking ban, with cars parked on the street subject to fines and towing.

"For now," Ellis Prakis said, "we are prepared to tackle each storm, one at a time."