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Somerville officials warn modern playground surfaces limit snow removal; DPW outlines trade-offs for year-round access
Summary
Commissioners and school officials told the joint committee that many rubberized and engineered playground surfaces cannot be mechanically cleared without damage; DPW said removal often damages warranties and the committee asked staff to audit affected schools and consider surfacing and design changes for future yards.
The committee discussed two related items: how climate and changing precipitation patterns may affect snow-day planning and the distinct operational problem that modern playground fall-zone surfacing creates for clearing snow during the school day.
Commissioner Jill Lathan (DPW) explained that snow budgets remain substantial because the city must maintain vendor and staffing…
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