Information Items:
Storm Debris Removal
Staff Resources: Wayman Pearson, 704-336-3410 - wpearson@ci.charlotte.nc.us and Don McSween, 704-336-5752 - dmcsween@ci.charlotte.nc.us
The City experienced three major storms this week. Two storms scattered debris and downed limbs across the city. The other storm was concentrated in the Sardis Road and Coulwood neighborhoods.
City Landscape Management employees have responded to over 100 calls for downed or damaged trees which blocked streets, sidewalks or other public rights-of-way. Debris causing a public safety hazard was the first priority for removal. The City has contracted with Asplundh Tree Company for three crews to assist with the remaining removal and clearing work. It is anticipated that street tree debris clean-up will be complete by next Wednesday.
Residents who have storm debris on private property are asked to bring it to the curb for pick-up by Solid Waste Services on the normal yard waste collection day. Solid Waste staff is currently conducting an assessment to determine the extent of damage. Landscape Management will assist Solid Waste Services with debris removal, if needed.
World Changers Program - Kick Off on June 20
Staff Resource: Stanley Wilson, 704-336-3337 - swilson@ci.charlotte.nc.us
The World Changers organization will partner with the City in its second community improvement program June 17 - 24, 2006. Approximately 125 World Changers youth volunteers will beautify and improve ten homes in the Reid Park community. Volunteers will provide painting, roofing, light yard work and other services to elderly residents.
Mayor and Council are invited to attend the kick-off event on Tuesday, June 20, 2006 from 12:00 until 1:00 pm. The kick-off event will be held at Amay James Recreation Center, located at 2415 Lester Street. Lunch will be provided.
Light Rail Safety Public Education Campaign
Staff Resource: Olaf Kinard, 704-336-2275
In late June, CATS will receive the first of 16 light rail vehicles for the LYNX Blue line. In early August, live testing of the vehicle along a mile long section of the LYNX Blue line will begin between New Bern Street and Tremont Avenue. Train tracks that have been inactive for many years will become active with the testing of the light rail vehicle. Over the next 12 months CATS will receive additional light rail vehicles that will go through the same testing. The public needs to be aware of the active operation of trains in this area and understand the precautions necessary to work and commute around an active rail system. In preparation for the testing this summer and full service in the fall of 2007, CATS has implemented a Rail Safety Education campaign aimed at informing the public of helpful and lifesaving tips when interacting with highway-rail crossings.
Approximately 15 CATS operation and public information staff were trained last month by Operation Lifesavers, Inc. to give public presentation to area schools, businesses, organizations and the general public on being a safe driver and pedestrian at highway-rail crossings. Operation Lifesavers, Inc. is an international, non-profit organization dedicated to increasing the public's knowledge of highway-rail crossings and reducing collisions at railroad intersections.
CATS has already started conducting public presentations to areas schools and employees. In late June, the campaign will be expanded with billboards (see attachment) and over the summer months, businesses along the South Corridor will receive informational brochures, training for employees, along with other Public Service Announcements. Over the next 15 months, CATS will expand the public education to areas beyond the South Corridor and the program will become an on-going safety education program within CATS.
