Newtown's Flood Recovery: Red Cross at Fairfield Hills with Water, Cleanup Kits

Community Update: Roadway and Bridge Repairs in Progress

Our community's resilience is evident as we continue to enhance our roadways and bridges. The Public Works Department is actively working to repair and reopen roads for traffic while addressing necessary maintenance. Please be aware that roads may be temporarily closed for repairs but will reopen once the work is completed.

Important Information and Reminders for Residents:

Roads/Travel:

• The Newtown Police Department and Newtown Public Works are coordinating the closed road list, which is regularly updated and posted on the Newtown Police’s Facebook page.
• Many roads are still compromised due to recent flooding. Please use caution while traveling and be mindful of washouts on the sides of the roads.
• Reduce your speed, as many people are working on repairing and rebuilding the roads.
• NEVER go past road closed signs, barricades, or tape. The road beyond is compromised, and it is crucial for your safety to find an alternate route.
• Do not remove any barriers or tape, as this poses a serious risk to yourself and other residents.

Damages/Financial Recovery Assistance:

• The following information is provided to assist with the process. Eligibility and qualification status for FEMA aid are yet to be determined.
• If your home or business sustained any damage, take the following steps:
• Take pictures and videos of the damage and secure these files in a safe place.
• Check with your insurance carrier to determine if the damage is covered under your policy. Document all interactions with your insurance company.
• Keep all receipts or invoices for anything you purchase to remediate the damage.
• Report all damages to the State of Connecticut via this link.
• If you cannot report your damage online or experience issues, please contact Rob Sibley, Land Use Director and Deputy Emergency Management Director, at (203) 270-4351. You can also email him at rob.sibley@newtown-ct.gov.
• The Governor is requesting federal aid for the disaster, but it is not guaranteed. It is essential to maintain all documentation and report damage as noted above in case FEMA aid is approved. If aid is approved, information on how to apply will be shared publicly.

• Be mindful of scams. Before engaging with contractors, check their licenses and insurance with the Better Business Bureau.
• Verify that those soliciting funds or charitable donations are bona fide charities or organizations.

Recovery Support:

• The town is working with several organizations that provide recovery support to residents. As more information becomes available, it will be shared through the town’s website and News and Announcement emails.
• The Red Cross will be at Fairfield Hills on Saturday, August 24th, from 11 am to 3 pm, near the weekly Farmer’s Market. They will be distributing Clean-Up kits, water, and support and referral information.
• York Lab (formerly Aqua Environmental Lab) at 53 Church Hill Rd, Newtown, is offering reduced pricing for bacteria testing of drinking water to Newtown residents. The Newtown Health District will distribute test kits at Fairfield Hills on Saturday, August 24th, at the Red Cross area and from the Newtown Health District office next week.

Learn more: https://www.newtown-ct.gov/