On Friday evening, July 1, 2016, no one would have likely expected that in about a 2-hour period, the Township would be hit with approximately 6.6” of rain in the southern half of our community.
The sudden and excessive downpour flooded streets, driveways, retention basins and homes. Twenty people were evacuated form a multi-family residence in East Vineland. The entrance to Cranberry Run was under water and the huge field between the Buena Vista Township Municipal Building and the John C. Milanesi Elementary School turned into “Lake Milanesi” during this unusual storm.
Our fire companies and rescue squads immediately responded along with our Emergency Management Coordinator Debra Bell and her deputies Ron Ruggeri and Bill Collins. The Township Public Works Department called in 5 employees to block roads, search for damage and assist wherever possible.
The front of Michael Debbi Park was totally flooded as were certain points along Route 40 in Richland due to the huge volume of rain all at one time. Mayor Chuck Chiarello, Committeeman John Armato and Public Works Supervisor Gene Sykes were out during the entire evening making sure the situation was brought under control.
Special thanks to the East Vineland, Richland and Collings Lakes Volunteer Fire Companies along with the BVT EMS and the State Police. While there was rain in all areas of the Township, a particular band of this storm breezed through Vineland and then into East Vineland, Richland and the Buena area.
Even the sun came back out to shine about 7:30 p.m. that night. Next time you see one of our volunteers, say “Thank You” for keeping our community safe.