Photo: Jay Willett/WBZ NewsRadio
SOMERVILLE, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — It's been more than a week since a snowstorm dumped 20-plus inches throughout the region.
But, the problem is that arctic-like conditions since the storm have been keeping snow and ice around.
That's led to hard feelings when it comes to street parking.
In most cities and towns, someone digging out a parking spot on a public street does not grant that person exclusive rights to that spot.
Claiming a spot with a 'space-saver' after shoveling out the snow is not enforceable.
People who claim 'dibs' on a space, such as using an item like a chair, could face a fine.
The debate rages on. "That's a tough call," one resident in Somerville said. "You're putting in all that effort, but then again, it's kind of like a double-edged sword."
Somerville issued a statement saying what's most important is keeping lanes of traffic open for emergency vehicles.
Somerville also acknowledged, as did Boston and Cambridge, the massive effort that is still going on to ensure public safety by working around the clock to remove snow and ice from streets and sidewalks.
Meanwhile, residents acknowledge the street parking controversy isn't going away. "I can see where the frustration comes around when you put all the blood, sweat, and tears into it, and somebody else comes along," another resident said. "But then again, it's not your spot! It's tough," he admitted.
WBZ NewsRadio's Jay Willett (@JayWillettWBZ) reports.