The City and Borough of Juneau will seek federal and state assistance following this weekend’s record-breaking flooding of the Mendenhall River.
It is reported that the Juneau Assembly has scheduled a special meeting on Monday night to approve an emergency declaration in the area.
A glacial flood on Saturday caused damage to private and public properties within the Mendenhall Valley, “including two structures completely destroyed by the Mendenhall River, three lift stations submerged, several fuel tanks washed away as well as a variety of other private and residential properties that suffered extensive structural damage,” as per the proposed resolution .
The city hasn’t yet set a dollar value on the damages caused by the flooding.
If the resolution is approved If the resolution is approved, a copy of the resolution will be given into the Alaska Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management.
“The City and Borough asks to the Governor of Alaska offer such assistance from the State that is available for additional aid from Federal authorities in cases where the capabilities of the State are not sufficient,” the resolution reads.
The meeting will be held at the time of 6 p.m. Monday evening. Juneau residents are able to be present in person either on the premises of City Hall or on Zoom. The Mayor Beth Weldon will determine at the meeting whether or not she will allow public comments regarding the declaration of emergency.
Additionally it is reported that there is a change in the Mendenhall River Bridge on Back Loop Road as well as the pedestrian bridge connecting Dimond Park and the Kaxdigoowu Heen Dei trail are both returned to service. Capital Transit buses have also returned to service on the route between Auke Bay and Mendenhall River School.
The city is requesting Juneau residents to call for assistance from the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation Spill Prevention and Response If they find a loose tank of fuel or hazmat container. Contact the hotline at 1-800-478-9300.
Juneau those affected by flooding and who require immediate assistance should call JPD dispatch on 907-586-0600. Those in need of shelter or other resources should email floodresponse@juneau.gov.
