Warren Township: Storm Ida Update

Press release from the Warren Township:

September 3, 2021

Warren Township was significantly impacted by the rain from Hurricane Ida.  The storm caused extensive flash flooding that resulted in long-term damage to roads and other facilities in Warren Township.

 The Warren Township Police and Fire Departments were the heroes of the event by rescuing more than 30 stranded motorists from flash floods, including one individual who was holding onto a tree when rescued by members of the Fire Department.  This storm required the removal dozens of vehicles, which partially closed roads during the storm and the following day.  Under the coordination of the Police Department, led by Chief William Keane, these vehicles have been removed and all but the damaged roadways have been reopened.

 The Public Works Department was out during the storm clearing roads from debris and they will remain active in the coming days removing rocks and trees from our roadways and other public facilities.

 Extensive damage was caused to Blazier Road, just west of the intersection with Dock Watch Hollow; Ferguson Road, east of Dock Watch Hollow; and a portion of Stiles Road between Stirling Road and Carol Terrace.   Due to the extent of this damage, which included the undermining of the roadway and caused pavement to be lifted, a lengthy repair process will be required.  These portions of the roadway will be closed with the installation of concrete barriers to ensure the safety of the public.  A detour plan for each location will be provided by the Police Department in the coming days.

 The Township Committee is working closely with the Public Works Superintendent Douglas Buro and Township Engineer Christian Kastrud to develop a plan for the repair and reconstruction of these roadways.  They will be working to ensure that these costs are covered to the extent possible through state or federal reimbursement and insurance funds.   The Township Committee requests the patience of residents as these repairs proceed.

The Warren Office of Emergency Management (OEM), under the leadership of Coordinator Jane Asch with assistance from Deputy Coordinator Sgt. Rob Ferreiro, managed our response during the storm.  Volunteers of the Warren OEM Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) assisted not only in Warren Township, but also provided support to the Regional Shelter in Bernardsville, and the Warren Township Rescue Squad sheltered stranded motorists and answered response calls during the storm.

 More than 900 residents lost power during the storm with more than 90% being restored as of Thursday evening.

 Mayor George Lazo expressed his thanks to the Warren Township School District Superintendent Matt Mingle and Watchung Hills Superintendent Elizabeth Jewett for participating and sharing information during our OEM conferences.

 Residents who have damage to their homes are urged to contact the Warren Township Construction Office to obtain guidance and the necessary permits for the appropriate repairs.

 Mayor Lazo and the Township Committee would like to express their sincere appreciation to the Warren Police Department, Fire Department, Public Works Department, Warren Office of Emergency Management (OEM), the volunteers of the Warren OEM CERT Team, and the Warren Township Rescue Squad. 

 The Township Committee extends its thoughts and prayers to residents in our neighboring communities whose residents suffered immense damage and loss.  We thank you for your cooperation as the Township recovers from Hurricane Ida and wish you and your families well.

This press release was produced by the Warren Township. The views expressed here are the author’s own.