Power Reported Back on Some Streets, Mostly in Hills

Some streets in The Hills have reported power as of about 6 p.m. on Thursday, according to the township's latest update, including Independence and Beacon Court and Lurline Drive.

Jersey Central Power & Light crew are continuing to work on restoring power in town and working on clearing South Maple Avenue, Douglas Road, Mount Airy Road near I-78 and North Finley Ave, blocked with a number of large trees.

However, Bernards Township schools will remain closed on Friday.

As of Wednesday night, election polling locations may be consolidated due to extensive power outages and blocked roads. Consideration is being given to the number of voters in each district, voter proximity to alternate voting site, generator capacity and adequate space for parking and circulation. Residents are asked to refer to the website for updated information.

Changes in polling location decision will be final. Even if power is restored, all alternate polling locations will remain in effect.

The Bernards Township Police Department remains open as a charging station. Residents can bring their devices to Police Headquarters at 1 Collyer Lane, on weekdays between the hours of 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. and this weekend between the hours of 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. First come first served.

The NJ Office of Emergency Management has a current and up to date list of
pharmacies, hotels, restaurants and gas stations that can be found at
http://readynj.posterous.com.

An extended grace period on property taxes will be approved by the township
committee at a special emergency meeting. The extension will be to 11/16/12.

Starting tomorrow, on Friday, a warming center is available at Fellowship Village Health Center, 9000 Fellowship Road in Liberty Corner, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The center is on the first left after entering complex from Allen Road. Facilities are avaible to sit and read or have a cup of coffee but they do not have the ability to charge devices.

Many people have asked how they can volunteer, and officials are asking residents to check on neighbors and the elderly.

The township will not be collecting storm debris from private property. All township DPW employees are occupied clearing roads, sidewalks and other critical areas at this time. Roads to Pill Hill Recycling Center are currently impassable, but once access is cleared expanded hours will be announced for residents to drop off storm debris. There will be unlimited trips: bring proof of residency (drivers license, utility bill, etc). Commercial vehicles will be allowed in if accompanied by a resident with either a valid township-issued Pill Hill recycling pass or proof of residency.

Businesses and stores are gradually reopening, the announcement said. Gas stations are in the same situation, but the announcement said fuel deliveries are beginning to come into the general area. Availability will be spotty, but the shortage is beginning to ease, the announcement said.

Mountain Park has been cleared and is safe. There is no restroom facility and no power.