CL&P: Assessment to be Completed Wed., Restoration Estimate Unknown

 Submitted by the town of Simsbury

CL&P’s liaison to the Town of Simsbury has informed the Town that CL&P’s assessment of the damage done by Hurricane Sandy will likely be completed on Wednesday evening.  “In response to our repeated demands for information about power restoration, CL&P has taken the position that restoration estimates cannot be provided until the assessment is completed,” said Deputy First Selectman John Hampton.  “We have made it abundantly clear that this information is critical – if power is going to be out for an extended period, both the Town and its residents need to know as soon as possible in order to plan for that.” 

Contemporaneously, CL&P has assured the Town that it is already working to restore the 1784 transmission line to the Town’s north-east substation – a critical component to power restoration for the majority of those without power.  CL&P is also working to replace two poles in front of the main Fire Station on Hopmeadow which provide the service backbone along Hopmeadow and adjoining neighborhoods.  “Make-safe” operations are also nearly one hundred percent completed.

As residents await power restoration, the Town’s Social Services Department has reaffirmed its commitment to provide shelter to those who, due to particular circumstances, are not able to shelter in place.  “Food, water and cell phone charging stations are being provided at Town Hall,” according to Social Services Director Mickey Lecours-Beck, “and housing has been provided to those in need.”  She added that Healthtrax had agreed to open its shower facilities to Simsbury residents without power.  Residents requiring shelter should contact Social Services by calling 860-658-3230.  Town officials will continue to monitor the potential need for shelter on a daily basis.

Sounding a happier note, the Town will not be cancelling Halloween tomorrow evening.  Chief Ingvertsen urged residents to use caution as some areas of town will not have power restoration by Wednesday evening.  There may also be unexpected hazards such as sticks and debris in yards, sidewalks and driveways.  “Supervision, reflective costumes and flashlights are just some suggestions to keep your kids safe,” said Ingvertsen.  For Safe Halloween tips, please visit the Police Department’s website at www.simsbury-ct.gov/police.