Lexington intensifies efforts to keep citizens safe from cold

DEM Blogger

February 18, 2015

With more snow this morning and bitter cold forecast for this afternoon and tonight, the city intensified its efforts today to keep major roads clear and everyone safe.

“Weather this cold is dangerous, and it’s not something we’re used to,” Gray said. “Our firefighters are warning citizens to be careful with space heaters and extension cords. Space heaters should be turned off when you leave home. And camp grills and stoves should not be used inside.” Citizens are also asked to minimize travel and stay put when you can; check on neighbors and take care of pets.

The city is meeting with utility companies to ensure they are prepared to respond to any service interruptions, Gray said. “This historic snowfall has been hard on everyone and we’re asking our citizens for continued patience,” Gray said. “Lexington has shown we can work together through difficult times … like the ice storm in 2003 … and we will work through this, as well. You can witness every day someone helping another person, whether it’s help getting out of the driveway, going to the grocery or donating food and clothing.”

UPDATES

With the additional snow this morning, crews had to move back to major roads this, but returned to the neighborhood streets this afternoon. We’re hiring more private contractors to supplement our crews. And importantly, neighborhood streets are a priority. The snow plan’s priority 3 and 4 neighborhood streets represent 560 lane miles. We’ll get through it, but it will take time.

The city is purchasing additional salt. We have enough on hand to get through this storm. But we always prepare for the next round. The city has 3,700 tons on hand; is expecting delivery starting today of another 1,250 tons; and, moving forward, plans to purchase an additional 3,000 tons at a cost of $233,000.
Private contractors who have been hired to clear driveways and parking lots are asked not to push or blow snow into the street.

Because of the brutally cold temperatures forecast through Friday, waste collection has been suspended until Saturday. Weather permitting, Waste Management will focus Saturday pick-up on residential areas that were missed Monday due to the holiday, and resume a regular pickup schedule next week. Crews ran limited dumpster service for businesses Wednesday, and will continue limited commercial service the rest of the week where possible.

Shelters for the homeless are in place and alerts have been distributed widely within the community and press. Shelters open 24 hours include Salvation Army, Hope Center, Arbor Youth Services and Catholic Action Center. There are also warming shelters open during the day.

“The cold temperatures are a much greater threat to people who are homeless than the snow is,” Gray said. “Our public safety officers will continue to reach out and encourage everyone to seek shelter.”

Charlie Lanter, Director of the Office of Homelessness Prevention, said the unfortunate death of James Clifton on Tuesday illustrates the problem. “It’s not uncommon for homeless folks to hunker down in empty houses or trailers and that’s very dangerous,” Lanter said. “We can’t find them when we search before something like that hits.” Citizens are asked to call 258-3600 if you know or see someone who is exposed to the weather.

Lexington city offices will be open on Thursday on a 2-hour delay.