NYC Lifts Travel Ban, Restores Mobility After Blizzard
NYC lifts travel ban after nor'easter dumps up to 24 inches, deploys 2,600 workers
NYC Lifts Travel Ban After Historic Blizzard
New York City drivers can return to the roads after officials lifted a travel ban imposed during the first major blizzard in a decade. Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced the end of restrictions that had closed streets, highways, and bridges to most nonessential vehicles since Sunday evening. The nor'easter dumped up to 24 inches of snow across the five boroughs, with Staten Island's Grasmere recording the highest total at 24.1 inches.
Storm Brought Decade's Worst Snowfall
The blizzard marked the city's most significant winter storm in 10 years, bringing between 14 and 24 inches of snow to different neighborhoods. Central Park saw 15.1 inches, while Sheepshead Bay in Brooklyn measured 20.5 inches and Mott Haven in the Bronx received 18 inches. Strong winds reached up to 50 mph and visibility dropped to a quarter mile during the storm's peak. The combination of heavy snow and high winds created whiteout conditions that made travel extremely dangerous across all boroughs.
Massive Cleanup Operation Deployed
The city deployed 2,600 sanitation workers on 12-hour shifts to clear roadways, supported by 700 salt spreaders and numerous plows focusing on key routes. Despite the lifted travel ban, Mayor Mamdani cautioned that road conditions remain icy and urged drivers to travel slowly and carefully. Officials said the cleanup effort represents one of the largest snow removal operations in recent years. Alternate side parking is suspended for the week as crews continue working across all boroughs.
Services Gradually Return to Normal
Schools are scheduled to reopen for in-person classes as the city returns to normal operations. However, some public services remain limited during the recovery period. Ferry schedules remain reduced and libraries are closed as officials assess conditions and complete cleanup work. The city hasn't provided a specific timeline for when all services will fully resume.
Riders Should Monitor Conditions
Transit riders should expect continued delays and service adjustments as the city recovers from the historic storm. Officials said they'll provide updates as conditions improve and services return to regular schedules. Moovit provides real-time updates for New York City transit routes, helping riders navigate service changes and plan trips during the recovery period.
