Tuesday Update: Alexandria Copes with Trees Down, Power Outages

Alexandria city officials are dealing with downed trees and power lines in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy.

Luckily, the storm caused no fatalities or injuries in the city, said city spokesman Tony Castrilli.

“There’s still work to be done, but obviously, I think the most serious punch went north of us,” Castrilli said. “So, from a city perspective, we’re encouraged that Alexandria didn’t face a direct hit in the storm, and that gives us an opportunity to get back on our feet quickly.”

More than 10,000 Dominion Power customers in the city were without power late Tuesday morning. Castrilli said the city is working with Dominion on restorations and that Dominion representatives will be visiting the city’s emergency operations center later today.

Some of the worst damage occurred at an apartment complex in the 4800 block of Kenmore Avenue, between Van Dorn Street and Seminary Road, Castrilli said. Strong winds damaged the roof, and then heavy rain caused water problems, he said. About 20 people were displaced and have found shelter with friends and family, he said.

Also, multiple traffic signals in the city are not working. City employees are working to get those signals restored. Castrilli urged motorists use caution while driving. Every intersection without a working signal should be treated as a four-way stop.

About 10 homes in the city were also damaged by falling trees, but no one was injured, Castrilli said.

According to a city statement, Old Town is experiencing minor coastal flooding. Union Street is blocked from Prince Street to Cameron Street, and King Street is blocked at Lee Street.

From 2 to 6 p.m., city workers will be handing out additional sandbags in front of Alexandria City Hall, 301 King St. Also, in-person absentee voting has resumed at the Voter Registration & Elections Office, 132 N. Royal Street, until 8 p.m.

City residents may call 703-746-HELP, a non-emergency number, with reports of damage of questions. Trash pickup will likely be delayed by two days, Castrilli said.