Safety Concerns Rise as Snowy Sidewalks Remain Uncleared in Top Chicago Neighborhoods

As winter takes its icy grip on Chicago, residents are voicing frustrations over snow-covered sidewalks that remain unshoveled. According to the city’s 311 system, West Town tops the list of neighborhoods with the most complaints about uncleared sidewalks this year.

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Slipping and Sliding in West Town

“For me and my wife, we’re slipping and sliding,” said Katy LaCivita, a West Town resident. “I don’t need to wear these [boots], but I do because of the sidewalks.”

LaCivita’s sentiment reflects a widespread issue in Chicago. Snowfall has left many sidewalks hazardous for pedestrians, and residents are filing complaints in record numbers.

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Top Neighborhoods for Snow Complaints

A review of 311 data revealed that West Town logged the most complaints related to snow and ice removal. Following closely behind were East Garfield Park, Belmont Cragin, Portage Park, and Albany Park.

Residents in these areas have voiced concerns about sidewalks being dangerous and difficult to navigate, particularly for seniors, children, and those with mobility challenges.

Some areas of Chicago, such as River North, seem to fare better. “I’ve lived in West Town, Old Town, Boystown, and River North, and I think River North probably was the best. I think maybe because it’s a little bit more walkable than West Town is,” LaCivita explained.

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Record Number of Complaints in 2025

In the first 15 days of 2025 alone, the city’s 311 system received more than 1,500 complaints about unshoveled sidewalks. This number is already over half the total number of complaints filed for the entirety of 2024, signaling a growing frustration among residents.

These complaints fall into three main categories:

1. Ice and snow removal requests.
2. Uncleared sidewalk complaints.
3. Reports of uncleared bike lanes or bridge sidewalks.

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City’s Response: A Pilot Program

Recognizing the need for improved snow removal, the city allocated $500,000 in its 2025 budget for a “Plow the Sidewalks” pilot program. This initiative, set to begin later this year, aims to test the city’s ability to clear sidewalks of snow and ice in specific areas.

However, details about where the pilot program will be implemented are still being finalized.

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Enforcement Challenges

Chicago’s municipal code requires property owners—both residential and commercial—to remove snow and ice from their sidewalks, ensuring a 5-foot-wide path for pedestrians. Non-compliance can result in hefty fines:

• Up to $500 per day for individuals.
• Up to $1,000 per day for businesses.

Despite these penalties, enforcement remains rare.

“We have the people come and give [parking] tickets. So why can’t people come by and take pictures of, you know, the sidewalk not being iced and shoveled?” asked Jacob Powers, a West Town resident.

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Why Snow Removal Matters

Unshoveled sidewalks are more than just an inconvenience; they pose serious safety risks:

• Slip-and-fall accidents can lead to injuries, especially for older adults.
• Blocked sidewalks force pedestrians, including children walking to school, to walk in the streets, creating a hazardous situation.
• Uncleared bike lanes discourage cyclists and contribute to traffic congestion.

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Community Voices and Expectations

While some residents hope the pilot program will bring relief, others argue that better enforcement of existing laws could be just as effective.

“I think the rules we have are good, but they need to be enforced more strictly,” said a Belmont Cragin resident.

Neighborhood associations and advocacy groups have also called for greater public awareness about the importance of shoveling sidewalks.

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How to File a Complaint

Chicagoans can report unshoveled sidewalks through the city’s 311 system. Here’s how:

1. Call 311 or use the city’s mobile app.
2. Provide the address or location of the unshoveled sidewalk.
3. Include any relevant details, such as how long the sidewalk has been blocked.

The more complaints the city receives, the better it can allocate resources to address the issue.

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Preparing for the Rest of Winter

With several weeks of winter still ahead, here’s how Chicago residents can help keep sidewalks safe:

1. Shovel Regularly: Clear sidewalks promptly after snowfall to prevent ice buildup.
2. Use Salt or Sand: Spread salt or sand to improve traction on icy surfaces.
3. Help Neighbors: Assist elderly or disabled neighbors who may struggle with snow removal.
4. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on weather forecasts and prepare for upcoming snowstorms.

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Key Takeaways

• West Town leads the city in complaints about unshoveled sidewalks, followed by East Garfield Park and Belmont Cragin.
• Over 1,500 complaints were filed in the first 15 days of 2025 alone, highlighting the scale of the issue.
• The city has allocated $500,000 for a pilot program to test sidewalk plowing later this year.
• Residents are calling for stricter enforcement of existing snow removal laws to ensure sidewalks remain safe and accessible.

Disclaimer – Our editorial team has thoroughly fact-checked this article to ensure its accuracy and eliminate any potential misinformation. We are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity in our content.

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