SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — Communities throughout NEPA continue to dig out their streets, sidewalks, and parking spaces after last weekend’s winter storm, and two days later, most major roads are clear, but how well did local Department of Public Works (DPW) workers do with cleaning up? It depends on who you ask.

28/22 News Reporter Avery Nape heard from critics and supporters in Scranton Tuesday night on the city’s handling of this winter storm.

Piles of snow line the roads of downtown Scranton on Tuesday night. The roads in Scranton are pretty much spotless; parking spots are even cleared throughout the city.

While many are praising DPW’s work, some are criticizing the city’s snow removal plan, especially in residential areas.

Driving through downtown Scranton Tuesday night, it’s clear that the city’s Department of Public Works has been working hard. Residents even took their praise to the city council.

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“I think DPW did a damn good job under the conditions they faced,” Scranton resident Joan Hodowanitz said.

“When winter storms hit, they’re the ones who turn long nights and dangerous roads into clear streets and safe neighborhoods,” Mike Mancini from Scranton stated.

Others, while thanking the men and women on the ground, criticize the city for what they call a lack of preparation.

“I’d like to commend DPW for the job they did with the limited resources that they had and the limited direction. It’s evident that Mayor Cognetti has neglected her responsibility to ensure public safety,” Scranton resident Virgil Argenta told 28/22 News.

Mayor Cognetti took to Facebook to let residents know that while some streets may still be covered, the city hasn’t forgotten about them.

“We know that there are still some roads, mostly courts and alleys, that we still haven’t gotten to, so please remain patient with us. We still have crews out there, again, all through today, all through tonight, and into tomorrow,” Cognetti explained.

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Many roads in South Scranton were still messy Tuesday afternoon. Some are still covered in snow.

While the plows are out working, people there are hoping the roads will be clear soon.

“I would like to see them just act as fast as they can. I know they’re trying hard, just act faster, get the snow out of here because a lot of people’s jobs are affected, our lives are affected, and there’s not a lot a lot of us can do about it without y’all,” Dave Stevens from Scranton noted.

Not everyone enjoys the digout, but it’s clear that many Scranton residents are proud of the people who make it happen.

“DPW, Go, go, go! Thank you,” Scranton resident Joan Hodowanitz said.

A lot of those narrow residential streets do still need some work, and while it might be an inconvenience for now, hopefully they’ll be clear in the coming days.

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