Ice-blanketed sidewalk had these Staten Islanders trapped inside until NYC agency fixed big mess

Residents of E. Figurea Avenue in Eltingville, Staten Island, were finally able to safely access the street and move their vehicles on Thursday, February 5, 2026, after crews cleared a dangerous buildup of ice. The ice had formed over a week due to a long-standing underground water leak, creating treacherous conditions for those living on the block.

A Week Trapped by Ice

The persistent leak caused sidewalks and driveways to become coated in thick ice, making it difficult and dangerous for residents to navigate the area. The ice reached a height of almost halfway up a fire hydrant near 107 and 111 E. Figurea Avenue, with runoff spreading further down the block toward Cortelyou Avenue.

Impact on Residents

The icy conditions severely impacted the daily lives of residents. Cathy Ogno, 79, and her husband were effectively confined to their home. Other residents reported being unable to walk or drive safely, with some vehicles becoming stuck in the frozen runoff. Sanitation workers and postal carriers hesitated to traverse the icy sidewalks, leading to disruptions in garbage collection and mail delivery.

Did You Know? The leak causing the ice buildup had been an ongoing issue for years, typically resulting in minor icing during winter months, but never to this extent.

The situation was particularly challenging for those with health concerns. Gail Santoro, 67, reported that she and her family had been unable to leave their house since the previous Friday. Her 93-year-old mother, who relies on supplemental oxygen, was unable to receive essential care as her home health aide could not reach the house due to the hazardous conditions.

City Response and Ongoing Concerns

Crews from the Department of Environmental Protection arrived around 8 a.m. On Thursday to remove the ice, salt the sidewalks and driveways, and repair a nearby fire hydrant. Residents temporarily moved their cars to allow crews to clear the area. A DEP spokesperson stated that the area is known for groundwater and will continue to be monitored for any further water conditions.

Expert Insight: The situation on E. Figurea Avenue highlights the potential for localized infrastructure issues to create significant disruptions for residents, particularly during winter weather. The prolonged nature of the leak underscores the importance of proactive maintenance and timely repairs to prevent escalating problems.

While residents expressed relief at the cleanup, concerns remain about the potential for the problem to recur if the underlying leak is not fully addressed. One resident noted that water has been running along the block in all seasons, creating dangerous conditions when temperatures drop.

Frequently Asked Questions

What caused the icy conditions on E. Figurea Avenue?

The icy conditions were caused by a long-standing underground water leak that froze due to freezing temperatures.

How did the ice impact residents?

The ice made it difficult and dangerous for residents to walk or drive, disrupted garbage collection and mail delivery, and prevented some residents, including those with health concerns, from receiving essential care.

What did the city do to address the problem?

Crews from the Department of Environmental Protection removed the ice, salted the sidewalks and driveways, repaired a nearby fire hydrant, and are monitoring the area for further water conditions.

As infrastructure challenges continue to emerge, how can communities best prepare for and mitigate the impact of localized issues like this one?