New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy says the state is preparing for what could be a major storm.
Murphy says gusty winds could bring down power lines, and utility companies in the state have activated their mutual aid arrangements.
“Their ability to bring in linemen and women from other utilities and other workers to bolster from other states. I think JCP&L has said that they have activated 800 people to come in and god knows we certainly hope that is sufficient.”
The Governor says the state has enough personnel and equipment to clear snow from the roads.
"Please do not head out into the snow unless you absolutely have to. Please give the local, county, and state crews the chance to work unimpeded to get our highways and roads clear."
The New Jersey Department of Transportation spends about $60 million on storm-related efforts each winter. DOT spokesman Matt Saidle says the tab before the current storm was
$53 million, $43 million over budget.
"Each additional expense that we incur is reimbursed by the Treasury. Our priority is to keep the roads safe and clear and we are willing to invest any resources into that that are required."
Ask Governor Murphy, a one-hour call in show produced by WBGO News, debuts Thursday, March 22nd at 7pm. The show will air from the WBGO studios and is in collaboration with WHYY and WNYC. The program is hosted by WNYC's Nancy Solomon.