Montgomery County Press Release
For Immediate Release: January 28, 2000

Residents Urged to Clear Sidewalks of Snow;
Failure To Do So May Result in Civil Citations

County officials are urging residents to clear the sidewalks in front of their
homes and businesses to provide safe passage for pedestrians -- particularly for
children who must walk to school. Uncleared walkways force pedestrians to walk
in the streets, which poses a danger to them and to drivers.

Owners and managers of commercial and multi-family properties are required by
law to clear sidewalks, entrances and adjacent bus stops within 24 hours after
the snow stops falling. If they fail to do so, they will be subject to a $50
civil citation from the Police Department.

Although residents who live in single-family homes are not subject to the law,
they are asked to clear their sidewalks within a reasonable amount of time to
prevent pedestrians from having to walk in the street.

Elderly or disabled residents who need help shoveling their walkways may call
the Montgomery County Volunteer Center at 240-777-2600. The center is currently
serving as a clearinghouse to match those who need help clearing their sidewalks
with those who want to volunteer their time to assist. Anyone who can help for
even one or two hours is urged to contact the Volunteer Center.