Icy steps and sidewalk problem in Morris Heights leaves residents concerned about safety
The icy conditions are centered around the West 175th step street and Undercliff Avenue. It has made navigating the area hazardous.
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Residents in Morris Heights say they are concerned about a persistent water runoff issue has turned a staircase and sidewalk into a dangerous ice zone.
The icy conditions are centered around the West 175th step street and Undercliff Avenue. It has made navigating the area hazardous.
The problem begins with water trickling down the staircase, freezing as temperatures drop and spreading onto the sidewalk below.
“This is my sidewalk that I walk on, so I have to go off to the street,” said resident Ines Gonzalez. “And there’s always traffic on this street.”
The Department of Transportation (DOT) is aware of the issue and has been working to manage it.
Crews have been breaking up ice, spreading salt and attempting to clog holes near the stairs to stop the water from reaching the path.
For now, the staircase has been temporarily closed, with warning signs posted to alert residents.
DOT workers suspect the water may be coming from the foundation of a nearby building, but the exact source is still unknown.
“It’s always been dry, and now I’m like, why is there water nonstop?” said Gonzalez.
The icy conditions have left some residents worried about their safety. “I’ve seen people from my building who are elderly, and when they have to walk down, I’m like, oh my gosh, I have to make sure they’re OK,” Gonzalez added.
While DOT continues its investigation, residents are hoping for a permanent solution. Until then, the stairs remain closed.
