City utility crews expect to complete power restoration in tornado-damaged area by Friday night.
WESTFIELD – Munger Hill School, closed for the past two days because of roof damage from Wednesday’s tornado, is scheduled to reopen Monday.
Superintendent of Schools Shirley Alvira and Mayor Daniel M. Knapik Friday praised Munger Hill staff, especially its custodial staff, for their quick response to ensure the 376 students are able to return to their studies Monday. Other municipal workers, such as public safety, emergency management and Department of Public Works, are also credited for efforts in securing the school and clearing storm related damage throughout the Munger Hill community, Knapik said.
Westfield Gas and Electric Department, with assistance from other utilities, were continuing efforts Friday to restore electric power to the city’s southwest corridor devastated by Wednesday’s storm.
The utility reported Friday afternoon that less than 100 customers were without power but that it expected to complete the task later in the day. Power was restored to Pontoosic and Knollwood Acres areas and most of Shaker Road customers had power restored Thursday night. Remaining work continued in Shaker Heights area that includes Falley Drive and some of Steiger Drive.
Police Traffic Supervisor Sgt. Edward Murphy said portions of Steiger and Falley drive were either closed or had limited traffic flow because of utility work in the area.
The tornado destroyed a section of Munger Hill School’s steel roof and, coupled with storm debris forced the cancellation of classes there Thursday and Friday.
“We have to relocated two classrooms to other areas within the building but it will be open on Monday,” Alvira said.
The superintendent said additional counselors will be in attendance Monday to assist students and staff if necessary.
Alvira said Munger Hill custodians “worked around the clock” to make necessary repairs at the school.
Also, Knapik said custodians from other schools assisted in the cleanup at the elementary school Friday afternoon.
“It was just a great, tremendous response from all municipal employees and to the community as a whole in responding to the storm aftermath,” Knapik said.
School Director of Operations Frank B. Mahar Jr. said Friday his staff is “still assessing the cost of repairs” to Munger Hill. “It will be couple of bucks,” he said.
No serious injuries were reported in Westfield during Wednesday’s storm.