By February the snow out toward the Reservoir Triangle has been through three thaws, and what's left is a gray crust that laughs at a shovel. LawnGevity of RI runs the plow through those blocks near the Cranston line all winter — driveways and lots opened, walkways cut down to concrete, de-icer spread on the packed spots that never fully let go. Getting under an old crust before the next storm lands on top of it is the difference between one winter and one very long winter. The trucks work the small streets and cul-de-sacs where a plow has to think about its turns. A drive cleared to the pavement in February feels like getting a month back.