Politics & Government

National Grid: Power May Not Be Restored for an Extended Period

Mayor Nancy Stevens released information Sunday evening detailing the severity of Marlborough's electricity outage.

UPDATE, 9:45 a.m. - The Marlborough Public Library is open as usual today due to the fact that they have their power back. They are open until 8:30 p.m. and have free Internet for those who are in need of it. 

_____

' office issued a statement late Sunday evening, saying that Marlborough's major source of electricity had failed as a result of Hurricane Irene. 

Find out what's happening in Marlboroughwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"National Grid has reported a failure of a major transmission line into the city of Marlborough," said the release. "Roughly three-quarters of the city is affected by the power outage. National Grid has informed city officials that power may not be restored for an extended period. We are making every effort to expedite this process. 

Earlier Sunday evening 3rd Ward Councilor Matt Elder reported similar information via Twitter.

Find out what's happening in Marlboroughwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"Some people west of 495 currently have power," said Elder via Twitter. "...If you don't have power now, you wont for days."

At the time of this publication, several neighborhoods in the western part of the city had power restored, while the vast majority of East Marlborough was without electricity. 

As a result of these conditions, the has requested assistance from the Massachusetts State Police. 

"Marlborough Police have requested State Police assistance in patrolling the town due to power outages that may last for three days," said a statement. "MSP is sending one supervisor and three troopers to assist."

While nearly every business in Marlborough was closed on Sunday, the western portion of the city should be business as usual with many restaurants, stores and office buildings having had their power restored. It is currently unclear what many businesses in the eastern portion of the city will do during this blackout. 

For those whose situation at home has become untenable, the city will keep facilities at the open as an emergency shelter. 

"The American Red Cross, working in conjunction with the Medical Reserve Corps, has established an emergency shelter for those needing assistance," said the release. 

The was originally supposed to start classes on Monday, while the rest of the were to host teacher in-service, but these events have been postponed to Tuesday, Aug. 30, pending the restoration of power. 

The Marlborough Recreation Department and will be closed, while the and will be open under the power of generators.

Check back with Marlborough Patch for updates on this ever-developing story. 

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date on the latest Marlborough news, or simply hit the "like" button at the top of this page.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here