Boston Boards Convene Virtually Amid Extended Snow Emergency and Parking Ban
Mayor Wu Extends Snow Emergency as City Boards Move to Virtual Sessions
In the wake of a powerful nor'easter that blanketed the region with more than 15 inches of snow, Mayor Michelle Wu has announced the extension of the citywide snow emergency and parking ban until at least 6:00 p.m. today, Tuesday, February 24, 2026. While the winter storm has prompted the closure of Boston Public Schools for a second consecutive day, the business of city government continues. Several key municipal boards and commissions are holding scheduled sessions today, utilizing virtual platforms to maintain public service despite the inclement weather.
Zoning Board of Appeal Addresses Local Development
The Zoning Board of Appeal (ZBA) commenced a lengthy hearing today at 9:30 a.m. The session, conducted via the Zoom teleconferencing platform, features a robust agenda targeting urban development and residential relief. Board members are currently reviewing several high-profile dockets, including a major Article 80 proposal for 344-350 Washington Street in Ward 22. Other significant agenda items include:
- Residential Zoning Relief: The board is hearing requests for variances regarding insufficient side yard setbacks and off-street parking requirements in neighborhoods including Brighton and Roxbury.
- Administrative Extensions: Developers for the project at 472-474 Western Avenue are seeking time extensions for previously granted approvals to proceed with site work.
- Zoning Interpretations: The board is set to provide final arbiter decisions on occupancy changes and vertical additions for multi-family dwellings in Ward 10.
Commissions on Fair Housing and Civic Design
The Boston Fair Housing Commission convened virtually at 10:30 a.m. to discuss the city’s ongoing efforts to ensure equitable access to housing. This session is particularly focused on civil rights enforcement and the implementation of fair housing guidelines for the 2026 fiscal year. Later this evening, at 5:00 p.m., the Boston Civic Design Commission (BCDC) and the Boston Landmarks Commission will hold simultaneous virtual sessions.
The BCDC will review the architectural impacts of proposed downtown developments, focusing on how new structures integrate into the existing urban landscape. Meanwhile, the Landmarks Commission will address preservation dockets for historic districts. These meetings allow residents to provide testimony remotely, ensuring that public oversight of the city's built environment continues even as residents are urged to stay home during the cleanup.
Snow Emergency Protocols and Public Safety
Mayor Wu’s administration remains focused on the significant recovery effort required by the weekend’s storm. During a press briefing, the Mayor emphasized the need for continued vigilance as 900 snow plows continue to fan out across the city. "This blizzard combined heavy accumulation with high wind speeds, making road clearing a challenge," Mayor Wu stated. The following protocols are in effect for the remainder of Tuesday:
- Parking Restrictions: The parking ban on major arteries remains strictly enforced. Vehicles obstructing plow routes or double-parked will be ticketed and towed.
- Municipal Reopenings: While City Hall is operating regular hours, Boston Public Library branches and BCYF community centers are scheduled to reopen at 12:00 p.m. today.
- Resident Responsibilities: Property owners are reminded of their legal obligation to clear snow from sidewalks and curb ramps abutting their properties to ensure safe passage for pedestrians.
The Mayor also urged residents to use the 311 system to report fallen trees or power outages and to call 911 if they encounter anyone in distress or experiencing homelessness in the freezing conditions.