The City of Erie remains under a state of emergency following last week’s destructive storms, as crews continue working to remove trees and debris across the city.
Erie Mayor Daria Devlin says the city will remain under the state of emergency through Thursday. At that point, she and the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA) will determine whether it needs to be extended.
During a news conference Tuesday, Devlin said city crews have completed curb-to-curb cleanup, meaning all streets have been reopened to residents. Power has also been restored across the city.
Now, the focus is shifting to hazardous trees, parks and debris removal.
Beginning Wednesday, city crews will assess trees that may have hazardous limbs and log those that need to be addressed. The city’s arborist has already assessed many of the trees that fell during the storms and found that 80% to 90% of them were healthy and in good condition.
Devlin says that highlights just how powerful the winds and rain were during the storms.
With trees cleared from the streets, crews will also begin cleaning up parks and other areas.
Residents who have tree branches and limbs on their property can place them along the curb for city crews to remove. The service is available to homeowners. Tree contractors, however, are responsible for removing any trees they cut down.
The city plans to release a debris removal schedule for residents next week.
PEMA also arrived in Erie Tuesday to begin assessing the damage and determining what resources can be provided to residents. Officials say PEMA will work with Erie County to establish a multi-agency resource center to connect residents with assistance, including help with food.
Devlin also warned residents about potential price gouging by tree contractors. She recommends getting multiple estimates and asking contractors for their Pennsylvania contractor registration number and proof of insurance before hiring someone to remove a tree.
The mayor says the city learned several lessons from the storm and will continue working with state and county officials as cleanup and recovery efforts move forward.
Residents are also encouraged to use the Genesis app to receive alerts about severe weather and storms in the region.
More information for resources available to residents can be found on the City of Erie website.