City of Orillia continuing to assess damage

For immediate release (September 8, 2014) – The City of Orillia is continuing to clear and assess damage along roads and parks following a severe storm on Friday, which caused significant damage throughout the City.

“City staff have done a fabulous job clearing the damage and making parks and roads safe,” said Mayor Angelo Orsi.  “Orillia Power has restored hydro throughout the City, and the majority of boulevard and park trees have now been cleared.  As private landowners continue to clear damage on their properties, the Orillia landfill is open and accepting tree debris.”

While City crews are responsible for trees and damage on City roads, boulevards and parks, landowners are responsible for the clearing and removal of trees on private property.  At this time, trees from private properties left at the roadside will not be picked up by City staff.  Council may discuss the clean-up during tonight’s Council meeting.

The total extent of damage caused by the storm is not yet known. Crews will continue to assess damage this week to determine the number, age and value of fallen trees, in addition to evaluating the damage to equipment, fences, and structures. 

Couchiching Beach Park sustained the most damage of City owned properties and lost an estimated 30 trees, of which at least 7 were over a 100-years-old.  Terry Fox Circle within the park remains closed but is expected to be open by Monday evening. 

Many people have come forward offering to donate trees to restore the lost tree canopy at Couchiching Park.  Staff will be exploring a strategy to accept donations through a tree planting program. 

While staff have cleared immediate hazards due to damaged trees, pedestrians are encouraged to continue to be cautious of broken branches and limbs above. 

Those aware of any hazards on City roads, trails or parks are encouraged to call the Public Works Department at 705-326-4585.

The City of Orillia is a city of 31,000 people in the heart of Ontario’s Lake Country on the shores of Lake Couchiching and Lake Simcoe. Visit our website at orillia.ca.

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Laura Thompson
Manager of Communications
705-325-8929
705-826-4399 (cell)
lthompson@orillia.ca