Snow removal a concern for upcoming storm

BOSTON (WHDH) -- Memories of the blizzard hit Boston, and New England, nearly two weeks ago is still fresh in many people’s minds as mounds of snow remain on many city streets.

Boston Mayor Thomas Menino said crews are ready to tackle Jack Frost’s next punch.

“We’re ready for the snowstorm. The numbers keep on fluctuating -- some people say 12 [inches] some people say three to six [inches]. I hope it’s rain,” said Menino.

City department of public works crews were busy filling potholes Thursday.

DPW commissioner Joanne Massaro is criticized about the slow response in some neighborhoods during the last storm.

“I don’t know know if I can do any drastic changes, but I know people are very conscious of all those side streets. We’re going to make sure, as we did this last weekend, that we got every side street that people have complained about,” said Massaro.

One woman passed by the crews working in the South End and scoffed at the show of force. She said South End streets were terrible for days after the blizzard.

“In many cities the streets get plowed and plowed well the first time so they don’t have to be plowed again. Here they aren’t plowed well,” said Linda Schwab, a South End resident.

Some have criticized Massaro for her lack of experience, but Menino said she’s an excellent manager.

“She’s a qualified woman for the job. She’s a woman who knows what she’s doing,” said Menino.

Menino confirmed the city fired a Brockton contractor who was supposed to clear streets in Charlestown, but he said that happened months before the blizzard. Menino says as far as he knows the contractor was replaced.