Baltimore Residents Struggle with Snow-Covered Bus Stops

City officials say clearing bus stops is the responsibility of local property owners, but residents say more needs to be done.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 10:55am

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Baltimore City residents are facing a difficult choice as bus stops and sidewalks remain covered in snow and ice from a recent winter storm. Many are forced to either stand on top of the snow and ice at bus stops or risk their safety by standing in the street near oncoming traffic. City officials say clearing bus stops is the responsibility of local property owners, but residents argue the city should be doing more to ensure safe access to public transportation.

Why it matters

This issue highlights the challenges cities face in maintaining infrastructure and public spaces during severe winter weather, as well as the tensions that can arise between government responsibilities and community needs. The situation also disproportionately impacts vulnerable populations who rely on public transit, raising concerns about equity and accessibility.

The details

In neighborhoods across Baltimore, bus stops remain covered in snow and ice, forcing residents to make difficult choices about how to access public transportation. At one stop on Greenmount Avenue, the bus stop on one side of the street is clear while the other side is filled with snow, forcing people to stand in the road. Residents report seeing people, including the elderly and those in wheelchairs, struggling to navigate the hazardous conditions. City officials say clearing bus stops and sidewalks is the responsibility of local property owners, but many residents argue the city should be doing more to ensure safe access, especially for its most vulnerable populations.

  • The snowstorm that left the bus stops and sidewalks covered occurred on Sunday.
  • As of Thursday, the cleanup efforts were still ongoing.

The players

Khaliq Greathouse

An East Baltimore transit rider who posted a video on Instagram criticizing the conditions of the bus stops.

Holly Arnold

The director of the Maryland Transit Administration, who encouraged residents to call 311 to help the city target different bus stops.

Erika Balcher

A transit rider who said it felt uncomfortable walking in the street around the cars due to the snow-covered bus stops.

Destiny Weise

An East Baltimore resident who said she was just trying to stay safe and not slip on the snow and ice.

Baltimore City's Department of Transportation

The city agency that pointed to the city code, stating that property owners are responsible for maintaining the sidewalks and bus stops adjacent to their property.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

Clearing efforts will continue through the weekend, according to WBAL-TV 11 News.

The takeaway

This situation highlights the need for better coordination and communication between city officials, property owners, and residents to ensure safe and equitable access to public transportation, especially during severe weather events. It also raises questions about the responsibilities of local government versus private property owners in maintaining public infrastructure and spaces.