The Road Commission from Oakland County (RCOC) was definitely not spared during the windstorm that caused havoc throughout Oakland County on March 8.
During the storm, more than 600 trees were reported in roadways (either fallen or limbs) and 150 traffic signals were either without power, in flash mode or experienced other issues such as facing the wrong direction. Approximately 100 traffic signals still remain without power. DTE has described the storm as causing the most power outages of any in its history of weather-related issues.
RCOC staff have been working around the clock to remove trees and other debris from the roadways and addressing traffic signal issues. Unfortunately, some trees could not be immediately removed because they were tangled in downed power lines which required either DTE or Consumers Energy assistance for safety reasons.
“We want to thank police and fire personnel for working closely with us to assure the safety of the motoring public while crews cleared trees in roadways,” said RCOC Managing Director Dennis Kolar. “I also want to commend our maintenance and electrical staff for a terrific job. They had a majority of the roads open by Thursday morning except some areas where there were downed power lines. They are continuing to clear debris left on roads and shoulders and repair and restore traffic signals.”
“I would also like to thank the residents of Oakland County,” added RCOC Board Chairman Eric Wilson. “Many residents contacted RCOC about tree and traffic-signal issues which was extremely helpful. They are our eyes and ears on the ground.”
RCOC would also like to thank the utility company linemen who are working long hours to restore power throughout Oakland County. “They often work under dangerous conditions, and we are thankful for their efforts as well,” added Kolar.
To report any issues, please call the RCOC at 877-858-4804 or fill out an on-line request at: RCOC CONTACT US FORM
