New Jersey Governor Discusses Response to Major Winter Storm

Storm Response and Preparation

• 💡 Preparation for the winter storm began on Inauguration Day, involving extensive planning by state troopers, DPW workers, and the Bureau of Public Utilities.
• 🤝 Mutual aid was crucial, with workers and equipment coming from states like Ohio to assist New Jersey.
• 👏 The governor expressed gratitude to public workers for their around-the-clock efforts and to New Jersey residents for staying home during the storm.

Storm Impact and Cleanup Phases

• ❄️ The state experienced up to 17 inches of snow, but the public's cooperation allowed for effective plowing and salting operations, achieving blacktop early.
• 🚦 The response is divided into three phases: preparation, the actual emergency, and the current aftermath and cleanup phase.
• 🔌 Efforts are focused on de-icing streets and ensuring continuous utility power to consumers.

Transportation and Infrastructure Restoration

• 🚆 NJ Transit and the DOT worked continuously to restore transit solutions, with light rail service resuming early and 85 bus lines operational.
• ✈️ Newark Airport is ramping up operations, and the commercial vehicle ban was lifted, with all state highways, interstates, and turnpikes plowed.
• ⚠️ Drivers are urged to use common sense due to wet roads and below-freezing temperatures, being cautious of potential icing conditions.

Utility Restoration and Energy Demand

• ✅ Utility operators successfully restored power to all individuals who lost it during the storm, a feat noted as unprecedented.
• ⚡ The grid operator PJM is preparing for historic electricity demand due to expected cold temperatures, with emergency orders issued to keep additional resources online.
• 🧂 The state has a substantial supply of salt, with 250,000 metric tons on hand and more inbound, encouraging municipalities to also refill their supplies.

Ongoing Efforts and Community Support

• 🗺️ The State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) has scaled down to enhanced monitoring, but remains in contact with counties for any needed state assistance.
• 🚗 State Police responded to 206 motor vehicle accidents and 1130 motorist aids, with troopers still patrolling to assist stranded vehicles.
• 🤝 Residents are encouraged to check on neighbors, especially the elderly and loved ones, to ensure their safety during the ongoing cold weather.