Spartanburg County, South Carolina Undertakes Massive Cleanup Efforts
In the wake of unprecedented storm damage, Spartanburg County in South Carolina is making Herculean efforts to recover, with help from local emergency service workers, the South Carolina National Guard, and even our northern neighbors from Canada. A recent press conference shed light on the progress the county has made so far, the strategies in place and the challenges they continue to face.
Emergency Call Centers and Cleanup Protocols
An emergency call center has now been set up to assist people who are trapped in their homes and cannot access their medications. The Urgent Unmet Needs Line can be reached by dialing 864-860-1644.
This emergency call center is located at the Spartanburg Community College and another one has also been established there. The cleanup operation is in full swing. Cleanup crews and contractors are working tirelessly to open up roadways and remove storm debris. Residents have been asked to move all vegetative and woody debris to the side of their roads, irrespective of their sizes and weights, to facilitate faster cleanup.
But there’s a catch. You shouldn’t bag your natural storm debris, because the trucks simply can’t pick it up if you do. Initially, publicly maintained roadways will be cleared, followed by privately maintained ones, including those within Homeowners Association (HOA) areas. The extent of the debris is such that the county predicts the cleanup might continue until the end of this year.
Job Opportunities and Debris Monitoring
Do you want to lend a hand and earn some money at the same time? Spartanburg County is hosting a hiring event at the county administration building. They’re in need of at least 100 people to monitor debris for FEMA assistance. You’ll get paid, and there will be on-the-job training as well.
County Landfills and Collection Sites
The only county landfill currently open is the Wellford landfill, which is accepting household waste. The county hopes to open other collection sites soon, so watch out for announcements on the opening of these sites.
However, please remember not to add to the debris at closed collection sites as doing this will only slow down the reopening of these areas. Dumping trash in front of them is not just counterproductive—it’s illegal.
Points Of Distribution (PODS)
PODS or distribution points have been set up at two locations. They are set up to provide supplies during times of emergencies. These sites provide water and MREs (ready-to-eat meals). One location is at the Tyger River campus of Spartanburg Community College in Duncan, the other is on SC-11 in Campobello. However, the Campobello site is currently closed due to depleted supplies and is awaiting replenishment. The Duncan site is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Shelters, Assistance, and Warnings
Two shelters are currently operational, one at USC Upstate’s Hodge Center and another in the basement at Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium. The shelter at Hodge Center is equipped with medical facilities for people needing minor medical help. The Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium is currently open to the general public, with basic facilities like water, MREs, and cots available.
The South Carolina Forestry Commission has issued a burning ban in 20 counties, including Spartanburg County. This means no outdoor burning unless it is for cooking food, or it is in a compliant fireplace or fire pit. The ban is designed to aid fire and law enforcement officials grappling with the massive cleanup projects.
The South Carolina National Guard has deployed over 700 soldiers across the county to clear road debris, cut up trees, and assist fire departments. Expect more such deployments in the days ahead.
As for those concerned about expired driver’s licenses or tags due to the ongoing crisis, there’s some relief. State representatives have worked out a temporary suspension on enforcement. You can drive with an expired license and tag until November 1st.
In conclusion, amid the storm’s aftermath, Spartanburg County is soldiering on, making every effort to restore normalcy. Thanks to its resilient residents and dedicated workers, the future is starting to look just a little bit brighter.
