May 25, 2011 3:00 p.m.
Maps
•N.D. Department of Emergency Services is working on a link for maps to post on DES, City of Bismarck, and Burleigh County websites. Expects to have the map link available later this afternoon.
•It is the intent that Maps will be made available at Sandbag Central Sites – North and South – soon.
Public Dikes
•Earthen dike built last night from Galleon place to Riverwood drive, Mills Ave to Traynor Lane – this dike can be driven on, but may be reduced to one lane.
•Right now - Hesco Barrier diking system is being built from the Pier Restaurant north to the Welcome to Bismarck sign by Bismarck Expressway. Being built on the west side of Riverwood drive. Riverwood drive is closed during this construction. Will reopen later today when barrier is in place. One lane traffic will be controlled with a traffic signal.
•Constructing an earthen dike from Traynor Lane west to the entrance of Whispering Bay on Mills Avenue. Once that’s done, the gap will be closed to make it one dike. This will NOT cut off traffic to Fox Island
•Right now - Corps of Engineers building a dike on the walking path from the horse arena and archery range on Riverwood Drive to behind the homes on Munich Drive.
Private Dikes and Sandbagging
Homeowners are asked to place sandbags and protective barriers on private property only. DO NOT place sandbags or protective barriers on roadways or public right of away.
Sandbag Central Operations
•Urgent need for volunteers at both Sandbag Central North and South sites to fill sandbags. Parental consent is required for those under age 18. Consent forms are available at Sandbag Central locations and on www.bismarck.org
•There are currently waiting lines at Sandbag Central sites. Traffic is being controlled at both sites by law enforcement for safety and order.
National Guard Update
The N.D. National Guard is operating Sandbag Central South, providing assistance with traffic and site control.
Guard personnel are working on the South side of Bismarck providing technical advice on sandbag placement. They are also supporting policed in traffic control operations in Southside diking operations.
Law Enforcement Update
Citizens are asked to stay away from areas along the river. Their neighbors, friends and family are working to protect their property. Unnecessary traffic impedes progress and causes public safety hazards.
Traffic Update – Be advised of a 4 way stop at the intersection of Washington Street and Burleigh Ave. until further notice.
•Washington Street is closed at Wachter Ave. Billings Drive and Munich Drive are closed at Washington Street.
Dakota Zoo – Making preparations to evacuate animals and protecting areas with sandbags. Evacuation Planning – No evacuations are taking place at this time.
•Conditions are being closely monitored and plans are in place in the event evacuations become necessary, notification will be given to affected residents.
•People who have concerns about threats from flooding that may cause a need for their evacuation should make personal preparations. These preparations should include where to go, what belongings to take, what to do with any pets, and properly securing their property upon leaving.
•Plans are in place and Shelter locations are being readied in case they need to be used.
Emergency Notification System Registration for wireless cell phones can be registered at www.bismarck.org Combined Communications Department. DO NOT call to register. Registration must be completed on-line. Please register only once. Only URGENT Emergency notices such as evacuations will be relayed.