Walsh: Boston Schools Reopening, City Well Over Snow Removal Budget
BOSTON (CBS) – Boston students will return to school on Wednesday and the MBTA will resume operations on a limited basis, Mayor Marty Walsh announced.
During a Tuesday afternoon press conference, Walsh said the city's parking ban will remain in place until 5 p.m. on Wednesday to ease the morning and evening commutes.
Cars parked on major arteries will be ticketed or towed, Walsh said.
Boston Public Schools have reached their allotted number of snow days. Walsh said that means that if the district cancels another day, students will have to make up the learning time later on.
Despite the high number of snow days, Walsh said that will not impact the decision-making during the winter's remaining storms.
"I'm not going to risk the safety of young people just for the sake of not losing another school day," said Walsh.
Students will go to school on Evacuation Day March 17 and on Bunker Hill Day on June 17, Walsh added.
Related: MBTA To Operate On Limited Schedule Wednesday
Walsh's announcement about the MBTA returning to service came just hours after General Manager Beverly Scott said it was unclear when trains would be back up and running.
MBTA officials said the Commuter Rail will run on a modified weekday schedule, making about 70% of the trips it normally makes. Trains will not serve Plymouth, TF Green, or Wickford Junction on Wednesday.
The Green Line and Blue Lines will return to service, but with less frequent service than normal. The Red Line and Orange line will also be restored, but to what extent has not yet been determined. That decision will likely come later on Tuesday, the MBTA said.
Walsh said City Hall will operate on a delayed start to stagger traffic in the city.
Boston Public Libraries will be open as scheduled on Wednesday, while community meetings will take place as planned as well.
The Boston Bruins game against the Dallas Stars will be played on Tuesday at TD Garden as scheduled, though garages in the area are near capacity.
Fans are asked to park at Boston Convention and Exhibition Center and take a shuttle to the game.
Walsh said the city had $18.5 million allotted for snow removal in Fiscal Year 2015. Following the most recent storm, the city has spent about $30 million, the majority in the last 17 days.