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Boston snow emergency and parking ban in effect Thursday

BOSTON (MyFoxBoston.com) – Due to the latest weather forecasts, a snow emergency and parking ban have been declared in Boston. Both will be in effect Thursday at noon.

Mayor Tom Menino declared a snow emergency and parking ban for Boston starting Thursday at noon, according to a release from his office. Boston public schools will be closed Friday, which Menino is calling an extended vacation and one last gift from him to students.

"What a New Year's gift, to receive one last snowstorm as Mayor," Mayor Menino said. "With more than a foot of snow expected in parts of the city, we are taking the necessary precautions to make sure the City is cleaned up as quickly as possible. I'm asking the public to stay off the roads throughout the duration of the storm and allow our crews to work."

Discounted parking will be available at 10 a.m. at several parking lots and garages for Boston residents with parking stickers. Visit http://www.cityofboston.gov/snow/parkingmap.asp for more details.

Members of the Mayor's Snow Team met Wednesday to go over the response plans for the storm. The mayor's 24-Hour Hotline will have extra staff on-hand for residents with weather-related questions. Anyone with questions or concerns can call 617-635-4500.

Cambridge and Somerville have also declared snow emergencies Thursday.