Philadelphia snow: City prepares for snow while Eagles' fans prepare for playoff game
Philly preps for snow ahead of Eagles playoff game
While the City of Philadelphia was making plans for snow removal, Eagles' fans were rushing to finish errands in advance of a snowstorm forecasted for the playoff game.
PHILADELPHIA - The City of Philadelphia Department of Streets is ready to tackle the snowstorm as the Eagles hope to dominate on Sunday’s NFC Divisional Round against the Rams.
Crews with the Department of Streets are expected to start on Sunday morning at 7:30 a.m. and strategically position all over the city to salt and plow as needed.
City prepares:
Commissioner Kristin Del Rossi is asking the public to avoid any unnecessary travel if possible and to exercise caution. However, with thousands of fans anticipated to attend Sunday’s game, Del Rossi advises taking SEPTA.
"We start off with like 200 pieces of equipment, and if the storm, the event, worsens then we’re able to scale up with more help from our interagency partners, contractors and our sanitation division," said Commissioner Del Rossi.
Commissioner Del Rossi said the Department of Streets is closely monitoring the upcoming snow and freezing temperatures. Before the snow operation kicks off, she said she’s grateful for her team.
"Signing up to work on a Sunday isn’t easy, especially during a holiday weekend during an Eagles game, so I’d just like to thank everyone and ask people to thank the crews if they do see them."
The other side:
As crews prepare for snow operations, many in the community were out on Saturday checking off their shopping lists to hunker down by snow and game time Sunday.
"We got wings, we got drumsticks, we got boneless chicken, we got a lot of greens," said Luis Sanchez of South Philly. "I hate the snow but I think it’s good luck for us. We’re going to play good at home."
"I’m excited, I love it and I think that’s going to help us win this game," said Jodi Stewart of Grays Ferry. "It’s going to be nice. We’re going to be in the house chill and relaxed. Let it snow!"
Tanisha Hite picked up a couple bags of salt and said, "We’re going to use it in front of the house, and plus we have a neighbor who’s shut in so we’re going to help her and shovel and throw the salt on her pavement too as well."
The Linc prepares:
Salt trucks were out covering the sidewalks in the stadium district Saturday evening. Eagles fans know very well that it can be tough getting out of the area during a fair-weather game day, let alone the added challenge of snow.
"Bring your patience, be calm, celebrate the hopeful win. Hang out in the parking lot and just take it easy getting out of here. Be safe," said Jessica Kelley of Bucks County.
"Big game obviously, a little nervous about it, the Rams are pretty good. I think we can take that," said Ryan Kelley of Bucks County.