Lacey Update: 3,720 Remain Without Electricity

Currently 3,720 Lacey residents are still without power after Hurricane Sandy pummeled through the area, according to JCP&L’s recent restoration estimates.

“Those residents still without power, we are working with JCP&L. The yare out there working,” Municipal Clerk and Township Administrator Veronica Laureigh said in an update.

Since Sandy hit, JCP&L has served 13,068 residents. Although 28 percent of the township remains without power, the JCP&L restored electricity for 2,659 residents on Monday. Approximately 842 residents had power restored on Sunday and 1,790 on Saturday.

JCP&L is confident power will be 100 percent restored to those areas that are not compromised, Laureigh said. Meters are being pulled from homes that cannot be restored.

Residents living in areas severely damaged in the storm should use caution when having power and gas restored. Ensure your home is safe prior to turning on the electric.

Further Information:

• Lacey schools will be closed on Thursday, Nov. 8 and Friday, Nov. 9. Students returned to school on Monday following the hurricane. Call 732-664-1035 for help with transportation. The school district is offering before and after school care at no charge. Families who are struggling with the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy are encouraged to contact the district for assistance. Visit the school district website for a list of web resources. Elementary students are encouraged to wear their Halloween costumes to school on Tuesday, Nov. 6.
• Elections will go on Tuesday. Polling places will be open at 6 a.m. Those voting in District 3 and 18 at Murray Grove will be relocated to the Lanoka Harbor First Aid Building at 305 Manchester Avenue. For more information, read our Election Guide.
• The Lacey Elk’s Lodge is open to those in need of a charging station and warmth. The lodge, located on Beach Boulevard, is also serving as a drop-off center for items and supplies. Those in need can stop by. The Lacey Lodge is opened daily at 11 a.m. For more informationc all 609-693-1281 or 609-693-9831.
• The Lacey Food Bank is collecting supplies. Click here for their wish list.
• Camp Bow Wow located at 695 Challenger Way in Forked River is opening its doors for those still without power. The local business has a washer and dryer. Coffee will be served and those in need can charge their electronics, use the wifi and bring their dogs in for free playtime.
• The Lacey United Methodist Church is open as a 24-hour shelter with heat, electricity, showers, laundry facilities and meals. Breakfast is served at 7 a.m., lunch at noon and dinner at 6 p.m. The church is also available to help with yard and house clean ups. For assistance call 609-693-5222.
• St. Pius is will be open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. as a charging center and for food, clothing, household and basic necessity donations. Families in need of assistance or individuals looking to help should call the parish office at 609-693-5107.
• The Forked River Baptist Church is also open as a charging station and for donations. Grace Initiatives has partnered with the church to provide families in need with basic necessities. If you need help, contact the church office at 609-693-2726.
• Popcorn Park Zoo is accepting donations for animals rescued and animals that are temporarily at shelters due to Sandy. Pet supplies such as food, blankets and towels can be dropped off.
• Lacey’s water supply is safe and has not been compromised but the state as issued statewide water use restrictions. Because significant compromises have been made to the energy supply, the ability to maintain the water supply system could be negatively affected therefore creating a need to conserve.
• For concerns with NJ Natural Gas, call 1-800-GAS-LEAK.
• FEMA information is available at www.disasterassistance.gov/ or call 1-800-621-3362. Ocean County is included as a location eligible for direct federal assistance.