Full Notification

NEWS RELEASE UPDATE

Power Outages and Numerous Tree and Debris Hazards RemainThroughout Arcadia

December 3, 2011
5:00 p.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 transition to local streets as soon as they can provide clear access.

To date, no major injuries have been reported. All but 11 signalized intersections have been restored. Temporary stop signs have been placed at the signalized intersections that are not currently working.

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

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 has estimated that the majority of their customers will have power restored by Sunday night. However, according to Edison, Arcadia and Temple City were hit the hardest so full service in Arcadia may not be restored until Monday, December 5, 2011. For more information and status reports from Edison, please call (800) 655-4555.

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.
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 from the property. 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:

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: Tom Tait, Public Works Director



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