City of Salem – 02/14/21 2:14 PM
A State of Emergency Declaration for the City of Salem has been issued, effective Saturday, Feb. 13, 2021, to facilitate continued response to the severe winter storm that impacted the Salem area over the weekend. The Declaration will remain in effect for the next 7 days and authorizes the City Manager to:
- Activate the City’s Emergency Operations Center;
- Spend City funds in an effort to reduce the threat to life and property;
- Enter into agreements with service providers for clean-up and protection of City infrastructure;
- Issue additional orders, if needed, to address the emergency conditions.
“The impact that this storm has had on our residents and community is just unbelievable, and we’re seeing these effects everywhere, said Salem Mayor Chuck Bennett. This order will allow us to continue getting the resources that we need for cleanup and response measures here in Salem.”
Hazardous trees and conditions continue to persist across Salem. City crews continue to respond to fallen trees, debris, traffic signal failures, and other emergencies. Despite improved weather conditions, the threat of falling trees and limbs remains high. Residents are advised to distance themselves from tree-lined areas along streets and in parks as crews assess these areas for safety.
There are still a large number of locations that have power lines in trees. These areas must be safely cleared by the electric utility companies. Approximately 30 traffic signals have been restored to operation since Saturday afternoon, with about 50 traffic signals still without power. A list of local area closures includes the following:
Major Roadways-
- River Rd. S. from Croisan Creek Rd. S. to Viewcrest Rd. S.
- Mission St. SE at Liberty St.
Parks-
- Minto-Brown Island Park (closed due to the number of large trees and branches)
- Please avoid tree-lined areas within all Salem parks.
City Facilities & Services-
- Salem Airport
- Salem Library Curbside Service
Local Service Providers-
- Salem Health Vaccine Clinics
The City has been working with our resource partners to maintain communication with those sheltering in Wallace Marine and Cascade Gateway Parks. Our police and code enforcement officers have added additional directed patrols to check in and make direct contact with campers. The City continues to support overnight campers with potable water, portable toilets, and waste management including garbage receptacles and garbage pick-up. Homeless shelters in our area remain open but may be without power. The ARCHES day use center is currently open and the Salem Warming Network will activate locations if the temperatures drop below 32 degrees. Sites are open 7 p.mp-6:45 a.m. during activation. Guests are welcome to check-in at any time throughout the night. Locations for warming centers include:
Residents may also contact the Cascades Region of the American Red at 503-585-5414 if additional services are needed.
Please stay home and off the roads if possible. Road and tree concerns can be reported to the 24-hour Public Works Dispatch Center at 503-588-6311 or by email to service@cityofsalem.net“>customerservice@cityofsalem.net.
The City recognizes the impact this unprecedented weather event is causing on our community. We would like to thank our work crews for their commitment and collaboration and recognize the many neighbors helping each other during this time of need. Please stay tuned to the City’s website and social media channels for important updates regarding the weather event and ongoing clean up.
