Blizzard Aftermath: Over 1,000 New Yorkers Already Signed Up to Help Clear Snow

By Y.M. Lowy

Days after the powerful blizzard, New York City’s emergency snow shoveler program is still going strong — and more than 1,000 people have already signed up.

The city is offering higher pay than usual to help speed up cleanup efforts. Shovelers can now earn $30 an hour, compared to the typical starting rate of $19 during regular snowstorms. Those who work more than 40 hours in a week can make up to $45 an hour.

To qualify, applicants must be at least 18 years old and provide two forms of ID along with a Social Security card. Once approved, workers are assigned under the supervision of a Department of Sanitation employee. Their main focus is clearing crosswalks, fire hydrants, and bus stops — areas that need to stay accessible for safety reasons.

The Department of Sanitation says registration is always open online, and the strong response shows many New Yorkers are stepping up, even days after the storm.