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TextBraddock District Responds to Snowstorm
Thank You to Those Who Went Above and Beyond
As we look back on the blizzard of 2010, our thoughts usually turn to
our concerns about streets being plowed or schools being closed. We’d
like to take a moment and turn those thoughts toward a positive and
recognize some amazing people who, when the situation was not the best,
stepped up and helped out their neighbors and friends in need. Three in
particular were:
Caby Smith of Fairfax. Mr. Smith was called in when a constituent
informed us she had to get her husband to the hospital early on the
morning of February 12th. A four wheel drive vehicle was needed to get
him out. We connected her with Mr. Smith who actually went so far as to
make a dry run the day before to ensure that the 3 a.m. pickup would go
smoothly. The next morning it all went well and the patient was delivered
to the hospital, had the procedure and is doing well
Another constituent of Fairfax was contacted when a constituent called
into the office with a unique situation. The constituent’s brother-in-law
was scheduled for a bone marrow transplant to treat his leukemia. The
donor was the gentleman’s daughter. They only needed to get out of their
neighborhood so that she could be picked up and driven to Johns Hopkins
in Baltimore. Our community volunteer was on standby during the weekend
and in the end, the road was clear enough for the constituent to get out.
However, the peace of mind this gave the family during the weekend was a
great comfort.
Jim Benton of Fairfax. Mr. Benton assisted Supervisor Cook in getting
out into the community to see what areas were still unplowed and
dangerous on Thursday, February 11th. They drove around the District and
inspected what the conditions were like. The two hour trip proved very
informative and problem areas were immediately reported to VDOT.
We also want to recognize all the volunteers who offered their time.
Just knowing that someone was ready to help eased a lot of anxious minds.
It’s service and commitment like this that can bring our neighborhoods
closer together.
Addressing the Damage Caused by Major Snowstorm
As the snow from February’s storms melts away, we will begin to see some
of the damage that was done because of the snow and some of the snow
removal equipment.
The most obvious damage are broken tree branches and downed trees. You
may have already been approached by individuals offering to trim and
remove damaged trees and shrubs. While some are legitimate businesses,
others know nothing about tree trimming. The bottom line is that if
someone comes to your door offering their services, you have the right to
ask for identification and their license. If the price seems too good to
be true, it probably is. Ask for a written estimate for the work to be
done.
Ask for proof of insurance and beware of individuals who go door-to-door
offering bargains. If you have questions concerning work being done on
your trees, contact the Fairfax County Forest Conservation Branch at
703-324-1770.
Some of you have reported to us that you have experienced damaged lawns
and vehicles due to the work of some of the snow removal equipment.
Unless you or your community privately contracted for snow removal, those
were operators contracted by VDOT doing snow removal. VDOT has asked that
you send an email to them at novainfo@vdot.virginia.gov with the time,
date and nature of the damage, along with an email address and/or phone
number where you can be reached, so that they will be able to contact
you. If you’d like, you may copy our office at
braddock@fairfaxcounty.gov, and we will keep a record of all concerns
received.
March 16th Snow Summit
On March 16 at 3:30 in the Board Auditorium, the Board of Supervisors will be hosting a “Snow Summit” with officials from VDOT to address the snow removal process. The meeting will also be broadcast on Channel 16. The public is invited to attend, but there will be no opportunity for public comment. As a result Supervisor Cook is looking for your input ahead of the meeting, so please call the office at 703-425-9300 or send us an email at braddock@fairfaxcounty.gov with your thoughts.
Braddock District Response
During the snowstorms of 2010, we tried our best to keep the District
informed and receive calls regarding the areas and roads that needed
specific attention.
- We fielded and responded to over 1500 emails, phone calls and walk-ins
and provided hourly updates to VDOT.
- Sent out five nightly Snow Advisories which reached more than 30,000
homes collectively.
- Supervisor Cook spoke with the Secretary of Transportation and
participated in daily conference calls with VDOT staff to give and
receive status updates.
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