Mayor Harkins: Impact of Sandy to be 'Felt for Days'

Mayor John A. Harkins met again this morning with the Stratford Emergency Management Team, which included representatives from United Illuminating, Public Safety, Public Works, Health Department and emergency managers.  

"Hurricane Sandy was a significant weather event here in Stratford," Harkins said. "The impact will be felt for the next several days. The town is bringing every resource to bear to facilitate a quick recovery. Please call the Hurricane Sandy Hotline, 203.385.4070, with any non-emergency questions about storm recovery."

Here is the latest update on the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy:

• As of 10 a.m., 11,500 Stratford residents were without power. UI crews are "making safe" areas with downed power lines. The town of Stratford is working with UI to open up roads and remove debris, both to make roadways safe and assist UI personnel. The town has 18 tree crews on the road, spread across every section of the community.
• Initial assessments disclose damage to the seawall and businesses along the shoreline. Sikorsky Memorial Airport has endured a major flood event and currently remains under water. City of Bridgeport officials indicate the airport may be closed for up to a week.
• Short Beach Golf Course sustained flooding and tree damage.
• Most areas of Stratford are accessible; however, some residents have taken advantage of the designated shelter at Bunnell High School. As of 10 a.m., 65 residents remained in the shelter.

Public works reports that Monday and Tuesday trash collection will be done on Wednesday, October 31. Wednesday collection will take place on Thursday; Thursday collection will be done Friday; and Friday collection will take place on Saturday.

The transfer station will remain open this Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Yard waste, trees and other storm debris will begin next Monday.

Residents are reminded to bundle branches in lengths less than four feet and to place curbside on Sunday, November 4.

Any Stratford restaurant that has been without power for at least three hours should contact the Health Department at 203.385.4090 before reopening so a sanitarian can assist in determining what food is safe to use.