Boston Sets $20 Million Snow Budget With New COVID Safety Protocols

Uncategorized 2026-07-22 clip6485 · Meeting of July 22, 2026

Boston announces $20 million snow budget and 200 new shelter beds for a pandemic winter. Mayor Martin J. Walsh, flanked by Chief of Streets Chris Osgood, Chief of Housing Sheila Dillon, and Chief of Civic Engagement Jerome Smith, held a winter preparedness briefing at the city's central Public Works yard, where 45,000 tons of salt are staged and more than 600 pieces of equipment stand ready for deployment.

Dillon announced the city is partnering with Pine Street Inn, St. Francis House, the Boston Rescue Mission, Bridge Over Troubled Waters, and the New England Center for Homeless Veterans to add 200 shelter beds, with targeted space for women and young adults. An $8,000 senior heating-system grant program is available by calling 311 or 635-HOME.

Walsh noted the October 30 Halloween storm — the largest October storm on record — served as the first live test of new COVID-distancing protocols for snow crews, including a policy allowing workers to begin shifts in the field rather than at central yards.

In the full story:

• Who Was There
• Organizations And Documents Referenced
• The complete report — 1,482 words

Source: the Uncategorized 2026-07-22 clip6485 meeting of July 22, 2026, reported from the official video recording and transcript.