Full Notification

NEWS RELEASE UPDATE

Power Outages and Numerous Tree and Debris Hazards RemainThroughout Arcadia

December 3, 2011
9:00 a.m.

STATUS

City staff and outside crews continue to work diligently to clear major streets of trees and debris. The primary focus is public safety and access throughout the City. Crews will be transitioning to local streets as they are available to provide clear access.

No major injuries have been reported and traffic signals are in the process of being restored.

Please Be Cautious. Numerous hazards from fallen trees, power lines and debris still exist due to yesterday’s severe winds. Please be aware of your surroundings and be extra cautious when driving to avoid injury or accident.

Treat any signals that are “blacked out” or not working as a four-way stop sign and be alert to your surroundings.

Remember to dial 911 for emergencies only. All non-emergency calls or request for service calls should be directed to Public Works Services Department at (626) 256-6554 or (626) 256-6650. For evening hours, please contact the Police Department Dispatch at (626) 574-5123. Please be patient as staff has been receiving a very large volume of calls and requests. Public Works is coordinating with Edison and other agencies as necessary and is working throughout the community.

Below are the most recent updates on the following topics:

Southern CA Edison - Power
Southern CA Edison is still working on power restoration. Edison crews and additional resources are being staged at Santa Anita Park and a command center has been established there. Edison is currently working on a local substation that energizes a substantial part of Arcadia. They are also working throughout the region. Staff has been working continuously with Edison but has not received notification when all power will be restored or how it will be phased. We have received no more recent information since the 12/2/11 5:00 PM Press Release other than some additional areas of the City have had their power restored.
If you encounter a downed power line – DO NOT TOUCH the line! Notify authorities immediately. A downed line or dangling wire is dangerous — even if it appears not to be live. Please be aware that once areas are re-energized, lines may become live.
Questions and status reports from Edison can be obtained by calling (800) 655-4555.
Trees/Debris Removal

Please remember that removal and clearing of trees that are not in the public right-of-way is the responsibility of the owner. If you do consider hiring private companies/vendors to cut or remove trees, please ensure they are licensed and bonded companies and that they remove all debris. Public Works Services Staff will take care of removing and clearing City-owned trees within public right-of-way and are moving as quickly as they can in taking care of this issue. Please be aware that City crews cannot remove trees or debris in the right of way if power lines are involved. Edison crews must first ensure it is safe to perform removal services.

Street Closures

The following street segments still remain closed:

- W/B Colorado at Santa Anita
- W/B Camino Real from Santa Anita to Lovell
- Longden closed between El Monte and Holly
- Colorado Place closed between Colorado Bl and Huntington
- 200 blk. W. Leroy & 1100 blk. S. 5th due to wires down

Event/Facility Updates

Breakfast with Santa and the Snowfest will still take place. Event parking will be at the Santa Anita Race Track, Gate 5. Free shuttle is available. For updates on recreation programs, please call (626) 574-5113.

Wilderness Park is closed until further notice.

Arcadia Public Library is closed until further notice.

The County Arboretum is closed until further notice.

Westfield Santa Anita and Circus Vargas are open.

Shelter Services

If anyone is in need of shelter services, please contact the Police Department Dispatch at (626) 574-5123 for a referral on transportation to the nearest shelter.

The City appreciates the community’s patience and support during these difficult circumstances. We also encourage you to communicate with and check on your neighbors who might have unmet needs due to lack of power.

By: Don Penman, City Manager