Massachusetts Roads Clear, But Caution Still Needed

The heavy snowfall that brought almost three feet of snow to parts of Massachusetts has finally allowed the state to lift its travel ban for non‑essential vehicles in four counties. The restriction on Bristol, Plymouth, Barnstable and Dukes was removed at noon, giving residents a chance to move around again. Even though the ban is gone, officials urge people to stay home if they can. The roads are still slick with ice and slush, and cleanup crews need space to work. The state of emergency remains in effect for most counties except Berkshire, Hampden, Hampshire and Franklin. Some towns, like New Bedford and Fall River, still have local limits on travel and parking. Boston’s snow emergency has been extended until 6 p. m. Tuesday, according to the mayor. She said the city hopes the weather and cleanup will look better by then, but she would confirm when it ends later.In South Boston, residents are using “space savers” to keep their cleared parking spots. Those markers must be removed within 48 hours after the snow emergency ends. One local, Connor Whalen, shared his experience: he avoided leaving at the last minute during a previous storm because it took hours to clear. The governor had already declared a state of emergency before the blizzard, calling up 200 National Guard members to help. Power outages remain a major issue. More than 250, 000 people in eastern Massachusetts still lack electricity. Utility crews are working hard to restore power, but bad weather and high winds slow their progress. Public transit is also affected. Trains on the Red, Orange, Blue and Green Lines run at reduced capacity, similar to Sunday schedules. Bus routes follow snow‑adapted paths and operate less frequently. All commuter rail lines use a special storm schedule. Ferry services resumed with changes, and paratransit rides will return on Wednesday.