After an overnight snowstorm dropped inches of snow across New York State last week, many SUNY Oswego residents woke up to more than just slippery roads.

Snow-covered sidewalks, blocked roads and inaccessible bus stops made it difficult and, in some cases, impossible for people with disabilities, older adults and others with mobility needs to safely navigate their campus. This highlights concerns about winter accessibility and the safety of the public.

“The pathways are terrible, and there is still snow restricting passage to class,” a SUNY Oswego resident claimed. The student went on to say that a specific path to the Marano Campus Center was only partly clear, which can cause traffic to the entrance.

Pathways leading to the west side of the campus still have inches of snow unshoveled, making it difficult to walk to and from classes. These barriers affect the daily life of students, such as their ability to get to classes, work or even getting a meal from the dining hall.

These issues have broader effects on students, such as missing classes or an increased risk of injury. Slippery sidewalks, staircases and poorly cleared pathways raise the likelihood of falls, sprains and fractures. The students and staff with mobility challenges may find ramps blocked or slippery, limiting their ability to attend classes or participate in campus life. This physical isolation can quickly become social isolation, highlighting how severe weather exposes existing accessibility gaps, reshaping who can fully move and engage with the campus. This means that the snow can cause academic stress, especially for students who rely on in-person instruction.

The college says winter response prioritizes clearing main walkways, residence halls and academic buildings to make sure class travel is possible. Facilities crew work early mornings, while students are expected to travel to class amidst the cleanup.

“The safety of our students and all members of our university community is first and foremost in our minds,” Kathleen Kerr, President of Student Affairs said. However, students have complained about slow sidewalk clearing near residential buildings and inconsistent attention to accessibility ramps after heavy snowfall.

With more snow forecast this season, the college plans a continued cleanup. Still, long-term accessibility requires stronger planning and shared responsibility to ensure all students can navigate safely on campus year-round.

Ultimately, snowfall on campus is more than a temporary disruption; it is a clear measure of how deeply our institution values the community, because when roads, sidewalks, parking lots and accessible routes are promptly and thoughtfully cleared, it reflects a commitment to student safety and wellbeing rather than a simple fulfillment of job duties.

With this, it ensures that students, faculty and staff can attend classes and work without unnecessary risk, reducing preventable injuries and preventing the isolation of those who depend on safety. This also reinforces that the college’s responsibility extends beyond maintaining appearance to actively protect students by fostering an inclusive, secure environment where learning and community can continue, even in burdensome conditions.