Greenwood Rebuilding After Hurricane Helene: Power Restoration Progress and Community Efforts
The City of Greenwood is tirelessly working towards normalcy after the powerful Hurricane Helene wreaked havoc last week. With over 5,000 residents still without power, efforts are in full swing to restore electricity and other essential services.
Weather Materials
The situation may seem overwhelming, but the weather forecast is somewhat encouraging. Today, Greenwood is expected to experience a mix of sunshine and clouds, with a high temperature of 83°F. Winds remain light and variable. Tonight, expect some clouds and a low of 64°F. These stable weather conditions are helping the restoration crews work more efficiently.
Electrical Power Restorations
As of Tuesday, Greenwood Commissioners of Public Works (CPW) reported that around 5,000 people still remain without power after the storm. However, significant progress has been made, with essential locations like Connie Maxwell Children’s Ministries, GMD offices including the West Alexander Wastewater Treatment Plant, Wesley Commons, Woodfields, portions of Sweetwater Road, Bentley Park, Bingham Farms Mobile Home Park, portions of Greenwood Mill Village, Grace Street to First Baptist Church, Emerald High School, much of Uptown Greenwood and several others already having their power restored.
Communications Director Tony Williamson assured the community that the city’s wastewater treatment plants did not suffer severe damage. “No huge damage. Of course, we’re like everyone else. We have trees on fences, debris, but no really bad damage to the plants,” Williamson stated. The two wastewater plants have been staffed around the clock to ensure they continue functioning properly.
Prioritization and External Assistance
CPW General Manager, Jeff Meredith, conveyed that the highest priority has been given to restoring power to critical facilities like the main hospital campus, grocery stores, key commercial areas, and gas stations. “Our top priority has been to restore power to critical facilities … approximately 60% of our system has been restored, but we still have around 5,000 customers without power,” Meredith said.
The CPW teams have not been working alone; linemen from the City of Troy, Alabama, Fayetteville Public Works Commission, North Carolina, City of Westerville, Ohio, and Beaches Energy Services in Jacksonville, Florida, have joined forces to expedite power restoration. Meredith further expressed, “We assure you that we will not rest until every customer has their power restored. This will take time, and we appreciate your understanding.”
Gas Infrastructure Repairs
With the storm causing damage to Greenwood’s gas infrastructure, which included two gas mains and one regulator station, these issues have been promptly addressed and repaired. Meredith stated that the gas system is operational, though still under careful oversight to ensure safety. Only 15 customers currently have interrupted gas service, which will be resolved as storm cleanup continues.
Water Treatment Systems
Amidst all these challenges, there’s good news on the water supply front. The CPW confirmed that Greenwood’s Water Treatment Plant is fully operational, producing safe, clean drinking water. There have been no boil water notices, and the water storage tanks are full, ensuring that all customer needs will be met.
Community Spirit and Moving Forward
The collective spirit of Greenwood shines brightly during these challenging times. Meredith concluded, “Thank you for your continued support and patience during this difficult time. Together, we will overcome this setback and emerge stronger as a community.”
Residents are encouraged to stay informed and report any gas leaks to CPW at 864-942-8100 immediately. Your cooperation and vigilance are greatly valued as Greenwood continues to recover and rebuild.
