A call to remove the filth exposed by melting snow

To the editor,

It was disgusting to see the endless mounds of dog waste and assorted garbage lining our Riverdale sidewalks as the big snow melted. Many dog owners and other locals are breaking the law, treating our sacred walkways as their personal dumping grounds, spreading misery. It’s hard enough for a pedestrian to navigate around the visible piles and smears of waste. It is nearly impossible for people using walkers, wheelchairs, or strollers to avoid carrying home this contamination.

The question is, how to address it? Ticketing dog owners who don’t clean up would be a powerful deterrent. Business owners are responsible for their sidewalks. They should act swiftly to clean up this mess, urged on by local business associations. I call upon our public officials to get involved and brainstorm about how we can restore the basic enjoyment and confidence pedestrians should have.

ALISA EILENBERG