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Residents raise sidewalk snow-removal and pedestrian safety concerns in Lexington Park
Summary
Two residents told commissioners that sidewalks in Lexington Park remain uncleared after snowfall, forcing pedestrians into traffic and raising safety questions; one speaker asked why the county is not enforcing an existing ordinance.
Residents at a St. Mary’s County public forum urged commissioners to enforce sidewalk snow-removal rules and to address stretches of road that lack sidewalks.
Terry Dottie of Lexington Park said sidewalks on Great Mills Road frequently remain covered in snow and ice, forcing pedestrians to walk in the street. “There's snow on the sidewalks… people [are] walking on the street,” Dottie said, adding that drivers must then “dodge pedestrians.” She said Peg Road also lacks sidewalks for long stretches.
Michael Brown, another resident, referenced an ordinance that he said requires sidewalk clearing within “36 or 72 hours” depending on circumstances and asked whether homeowners who clear sidewalks could face liability if someone later slips on treated walkways. “Am I now liable for somebody falling because I took upon myself to do the work, or is the county at fault because it's a public sidewalk?” Brown asked.
Commissioner President Randy Guy said directors would review concerns and that residents should also report problems through the county’s 311 system. No enforcement actions were taken at the meeting; comments were recorded as public input.
Why it matters: Unplowed or icy sidewalks can force pedestrians into traffic, increasing risk of injury, and raise questions about enforcement responsibility and liability for property owners who clear walkways.
