Following this weekend’s freak mid-fall snowstorm, City officials have put in place sheltering and debris removal plans.
Public Works crews along with contractors have been removing tree limbs that have fallen in the public way that are not near downed power lines.
“We urge residents to use caution until all wires have been repaired and debris removed,” said City Manager Bernie Lynch. “Our first priority is to make our roads and sidewalks safe and to provide shelter for our residents who have lost power. As we move forward we are also making arrangements to help residents dispose of fallen tree limbs.”
The following debris drop off locations will be opened to assist residents in disposing of fallen branches on Saturday, November 5 and Saturday, November 12 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.:
Hovey Field, 31 Hovey Ave. off of Hildreth St. near the Dracut line (Centralville)
Leblanc Park/McNamara Park, 475 West Meadow Rd. (Pawtucketville)
Cawley Stadium, 512 Douglas Rd. (Belvidere)
DPW Yard, 1365 Middlesex St. (Highlands)
In addition, the Public Works yard will be open for storm related tree disposal Wednesday, November 2 to Friday, November 4 from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Material will be accepted from Lowell residents only. Residents must present a Lowell tax bill or valid driver’s license issued in Lowell to confirm residency.
Material that is acceptable as yard waste (Branches must be less than 3′ in length and less than 3″ in diameter at the widest end.) can be put out for yard waste pickup on regularly scheduled days.
City officials have met with National Grid representatives and continue to press for expediting repairs.
“As of this afternoon we are told that Varnum Avenue areas have come back online,” said Lynch. “We are in constant contact with National Grid officials and will press for full restoration of power to all neighborhoods and all Lowell residents as soon as possible.”
The Lowell Senior Center will remain open as an emergency shelter for residents still without power. Call (978) 970-4131 to confirm that the Center is still open.
Drivers are urged to use caution when driving through areas without power at night and to approach each signaled intersection without operating traffic lights as a 4-way stop.
Residents are also reminded that Trick or Treating has been postponed to next Sunday, November 6 from 6-8 p.m.