Snow-filled sidewalks force pedestrians onto streets

Snow-filled sidewalks are forcing many pedestrians to walk amid traffic on roads in several P.E.I. communities.

With four storms in the past week and a half, roads continue to be cleared, but some sidewalks remain buried.

Charlottetown has 11 sidewalk plows in its arsenal.

"Most of the contractors have been through their areas at least once," said Paul Johnston, the city's public works manager.

"Sidewalks are often difficult, most recently, like I say, with 60 centimetres of snow, it's been slow going for the machines when they are able to clear it."

Canada Post mail carrier Arlene Power tries to get her job done safely in Charlottetown.

"Without the sidewalks, it's so treacherous and dangerous, I just can't believe it. Especially Euston Street, which is a busy street."

She says now, more than ever, drivers have to share the road.

"We have to consider that these streets have to be shared by the pedestrian and the cars and make sure people are going to be safe."

With frigid temperatures on the way, city officials say even plowed sidewalks may be icy and treacherous this weekend.