Arlington Public Works and Transportation employees spent the day on Sept. 8, 2018, responding to storm-related calls across the city.
While many Arlington residents spent Saturday, September 8, indoors and out of the heavy rains, a small group of Public Works and Transportation employees spent the day responding to storm-related calls across the city.
Twenty two employees spent nine hours responding to storm-related incidents at 19 separate locations. The heavy rains created emergencies ranging from washed out roadways to downed street lights and trees. Early preparation was critical to minimizing damage. The day prior to the storm, members of the Stormwater Maintenance group cleared debris from multiple locations throughout the city to minimize potential flooding risks.
"I am extremely proud of our Field Operations staff for their advanced planning and quick response to the deteriorating conditions," said Julius White, Field Operations Manager. "Public Works plays a critical role in emergency response and recovery efforts. During emergency situations, we work closely with the City's other first responders to ensure the safety of Arlington's residents and visitors and the safeguarding of the City's infrastructure."
In 2005, the Department of Homeland security and Federal Emergency Management Agency, added public works as a first responder. The inclusion of public works personnel as first responders recognizes the specialized capabilities the dedicated men and women of the department contribute emergency planning, response, and recovery.
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