Hundreds Of Midshipman Dig Out Annapolis

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (WJZ)--The City of Annapolis has just downgraded their snow plan to phase two, which means parking is not allowed on the emergency snow routes, but you can now drive your car on the roads.

Tracey Leong has more.

For two long days a brutal blizzard pummels Annapolis bringing wild winds, near whiteout condition and a record breaking snowfall.

On Sunday, after the storm left its mark, it was time to begin the cleanup.

"We are still encouraging people to stay off the roads and let our crews do their work," said Steve Schuh, AACo. County Executive.

All major state and county roads are now passable, but there is still a long road ahead.

"We have people shoveling streets 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, so we are going to continue to do what we are doing to make sure people get the services they need," said Annapolis Mayor Mike Pantelides.

Hundreds of plows are assisting in the cleanup to get the city back up and running.

All that snow that is being cleared in Annapolis is being brought to Truxtun Park swimming pool parking lot, there is plenty of space because it is closed for the winter. The snow is not treated with any chemicals, so it's not harmful to the environment when it melts.

City and county leaders say they're pleased with their response to the storm.

"We had a great game plan, a backup plan, and a backup plan, and fortunately things have gone well," Schuh said.

Officials say they are pleasantly surprised the storm didn't cause significant damage.

Authorities responded to only minor accidents and less than 80 calls of service, but the work isn't over yet.

Hundreds of midshipmen jumped into action on Sunday to dig out their neighbors.

"We took an oath to serve, and serve our country, and service starts here in the community, and helping those around us," said Midshipman Mike Higgins.

It's a sentiment that's appreciated across Annapolis.

And after being snowed in for a couple of days people young and old couldn't wait to get out and play.

"We are finally dug out, so we are having a little fun we are going sledding today," said Brian Sears.

The main roads are passable, but the city tells me it could take at least 6 days before everything is cleared out.

So the message tonight: proceed with caution.