Frigid weather won't stop Erie ambassadors from clearing sidewalks.

Two Erie Downtown Partnership ambassadors clear sidewalks before daylight and assist vulnerable people during cold weather, including distributing 400 donated hand warmers.

When temperatures fall and snow covers downtown Erie, Derek Smith and Rob Nelson work before daylight to clear sidewalks for pedestrians and businesses. They serve as ambassadors for the Erie Downtown Partnership rather than city employees. They use a small plow and shovels and also check on vulnerable people during severe weather. A recent donation of 400 hand warmers from Ferrier's Hardware has been distributed to people in need. Key facts: - Derek Smith and Rob Nelson clear sidewalks early and use a small plow and hand shovels. - They are ambassadors for the Erie Downtown Partnership; many people assume they work for the City of Erie. - The team keeps tabs on vulnerable populations during extreme cold and hands out donated hand warmers. - Smith said the team will work 20–30 minutes in extreme cold, then go inside to warm up. - Erie Downtown Partnership Executive Director Emily Fetcko praised the ambassadors and identified Ken Parks as team leader. Summary: Their work helps keep downtown accessible during cold weather by clearing walkways and offering assistance to people in need. Undetermined at this time.