Update on City Response to September Snow Event
The City of Calgary said Thursday that power has been restored to the majority of citizens and tree cleanup is well underway.
Remaining Power Outages
Crews have worked quickly to restore service to as many as possible and are pleased to report that currently the power remains off for approximately 1800 customers. Enmax is working directly with impacted households to restore service. Safety remains the priority concern and houses cannot be re-energized unless it is safe to do so. Additional crews from Edmonton service areas and contractors arrived Thursday to provide extra support to Calgary operations.
If power to an area has been restored but individual households still do not have service, repairs may be required to the individual connection point on the home itself.
Calgarians with a damaged connector (also called a “service masthead”) on their home need to hire a qualified tradesperson to complete repairs. Contractors are able to quickly apply for all necessary permits to get customers connected without delay. Calgarians remain responsible for ensuring all proper permits are obtained and should ensure their contractor has applied for the proper permits. This can be verified by contacting 311 or 268-5311. More information is available on Calgary.ca.
Trees and debris
Since September 9, approximately 3830 tree emergencies were reported to 311 on both private and public property. The City remains focused on clearing those trees damaged prior to assessing any longer term impacts.
The City is asking for the patience of all Calgarians as it continues cleanup efforts. The City also asks citizens to help friends and neighbours with their cleanup on private property if it is safe to do so and within their physical abilities. Please be safe when assisting others. Wear appropriate safety gear and call for help if downed branches or trees are near a power line. If it’s safe to do so:
- Citizens can pick up and take tree debris directly to any of The City’s three City landfill sites and it will be accepted at no charge. The City will be mulching the debris for future use.
- Debris should be cut into no more than four foot lengths and stacked as neatly as possible close to where regular cart collection would take place. Do not block lanes, roads or sidewalks.
- Do not put branches and tree debris into black and blue collection carts. This debris clearing will operate as a separate program than regular cart collection. Put branches beside your black and blue carts.
The City reminds residents to use an online solution if possible to avoid tying up 311 lines. Visit www.calgary.ca/311 or download the City’s 311 mobile app to report a concern.
Residents who have already contacted the City with a tree-related complaint and nothing has changed, should avoid calling back. If a situation changes and poses an immediate danger, please call 9-1-1.
Impacted City Recreation Facilities
Recreation staff worked diligently through the day and evening to address issues at eleven arenas, aquatic facilities and Wildflower art centre which were closed until Wednesday. All impacted facilities have now re-opened. Debris is also being picked up at City-operated golf courses and courses The City is hoping to begin re-opening this weekend. Recreation operated athletic parks remain closed due to fallen trees and wet conditions and will be re-opened as debris is removed and conditions improve. Check Calgary.ca for the current status of all recreation facilities.
Due to the current closure of some City parks and pathways, outdoor events planned for this weekend may need to be relocated or cancelled. The City will continue to work with event organizers to advise of any impacts to public events.
Information updates are available at www.Calgary.ca .
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