Heavy rains on Monday, July 21, brought an expensive headache to some Port Richmond residents, who experienced flooding in their homes. Flooding occurred on several blocks throughout Port Richmond.
Neighbors present at the Port Richmond Community Group on Thursday, July 25 asked how to proceed in getting assistance in their homes. Many said that water came up through their toilets, sinks and washing machines in basements. One woman at the meeting described the mold smell in her basement as “unbearable.”
Marc Collazzo of State Rep. John Taylor’s office, 215–744–2600, and Lisa Deely of Councilman Bobby Henon’s office, 215–686–3444, were both at the meeting to help those affected by the flooding.
They asked residents to provide their names, addresses and phone numbers so that they can help resolve the issue by contacting city agencies including the City of Philadelphia Risk Management Division, 215–686–1700. Residents with flooding damage are asked to call these offices to provide information.
Taylor’s office provided a link to a Physical Disaster Survey Form the city is asking victims of the flood to complete to expedite the handling of damage.
The document can be found at: ph.ly/floodform, or can be picked up at Taylor’s offices: 2901 E. Thompson St., and 4725 Richmond St.
Marc Collazzo, district officer manager for State Rep. Taylor, said in an email message Wednesday:
“Joanne Dahme of The Philadelphia Water Department will be completing surveys of all affected areas, as well as sending robo-calls about how to proceed, as well as to let people know that the Streets Department will not fine the affected individuals if they put damaged items out in the trash early. The emergency water line is 215–685–6300.”
“As of today, PWD is still investigating the cause. We have advised our constituents to contact our office(s) so that we can report their damages to PWD. Finally, Rep. Taylor has been visiting with flood victims and advised them to also take pictures of their damage, obtain any estimates for repair and/or replacement, and notify their homeowner’s insurance carrier,” Collazzo wrote.
PRCG president Theresa Costello stressed the importance of documenting flood damage with photographs and written lists. The offices of Taylor and Henon have both notified the city’s Sanitation Department, she said, so that residents would not be fined for placing wet and damaged items in the trash.
Deeley posted on Facebook on behalf of Henon’s office: “I’ve been in contact with the Water Commissioner and a full investigation is underway to determine the cause of the flooding. If you need assistance with the Streets Department with trash removal or other related assistance, please email lisa@bobbyhenon.com.”
