Weakened Trees, Poles Biggest Concern in Nor'Easter

With most roads passable in Bedminster at this point, the biggest concern with Wednesday's predicted nor'easter could be already weakened trees and poles, according to Bedminster Township Police Chief Pat Ussery.

"It is certainly recognized that some already weakened trees and poles could be adversely affected by more wind or snow," he said. "We'll have to see what happens."

At this point, Ussery said, there are only two wire-related issues closing roads, namely Country Club and Old Dutch Road West. All other roads through the township, he said, are once again passable after the destruction of Hurricane Sandy.

"And our road department is preparing as usual for possible road clearing operations," he said. "We will deploy emergency workers as necessary, but the storm's effects can't be predicted, of course."

As for power, Ussery said, about 75 percent of the township is currently energized, with exceptions in local neighborhoods like Hillside Avenue and some of the interior road sections.

And for shelter purposes, Bernards High School remains open if the need arises.

Bedminster Township Committeman Steven Parker said communication has been great during the hurricane clean-up, and will be beneficial in the future.

"Communication was one of the things discussed [in the campaign], and a storm like [Sandy] forced some outlets to be used," he said.

Those included the township's new Facebook page, which launched right before the storm.

And, Parker said, it is important to be on the list to receive NIXLE alerts about emergencies. The information goes to a registered phone, and more information can be found here.

"We just sent out a NIXLE alert about warming stations," he said. "I think we doubled our participation in that through the storm, and it's a wonderful service."