New Bedford Will Have Sand Available For Weekend Snow Storm

It just doesn't snow as it used to, until it does. It appears it will this weekend, though, so I figured I'd let you know where you can find some sand to treat the walkways, sidewalks, driveways, or whatever you might be shoveling come Monday.

It's true, New Bedford had sand barrels all over the city at one time. Now there are just three locations where you can get sand. They are at the corner of Smith and Liberty Streets, at Brooklawn Park (the Senior Center parking lot), and the city parking lot at 780 South First Street (across from the Dennison Memorial Community Center).

Mayor Jon Mitchell told me a few years ago that the number of sand barrel locations was reduced when people began to pilfer the stuff. Imagine that? Others were using the sand barrels for trash cans.

READ MORE: New Bedford Still Makes Sand Available During Snowstorms

Mitchell said fewer people were taking the free sand because these days, there are other options, such as Ice Melt available in stores. Makes sense.

Just a suggestion from a former homeowner: think about grabbing your share of free sand before the snow falls because it might be difficult to make it to the sand barrels if the roads become impassable. You'll be happy you did.

As a homeowner, you have responsibilities when it snows, like clearing the walkways in front of your house. Even though the city owns them, you must shovel them or face a fine.

READ MORE: Snow Closings and Parking Bans

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There will most likely be a parking ban in effect until the storm passes. Know that the City will enforce it, and if you are in violation, you will see your vehicle towed.

The rules for parking during an emergency parking ban are posted on the City of New Bedford website, as are emergency phone numbers, the location of available parking lots, and anything else you might need to know to make it through the storm.

READ MORE: Snow Totals Updated for Weekend Storm

By the way, this is a full-fledged milk and bread event, so shop early, don't wait for the last minute, and leave some for someone else.