WETHERSFIELD--After more than 30 inches of snow fell in areas of the Mid Atlantic last week, Connecticut has lent a helping hand.
The mayor of Washington D.C. tweeted her appreciation of the crews from Connecticut.
Gov. Dan Malloy announced on Tuesday that the state Department of Transportation would send about 30 employees to Washington and Maryland to help with snow removal.
The crews left Wednesday morning at midnight, along with four jumbo snowblowers, four plow trucks, repair gear and other equipment. They will be there for three to five days.
The announcement is part of the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, a several-state agreement for governments to provide assistance to other states in times of emergencies. The last time Connecticut sent crews out for snow removal under the agreement was in November 2014, when Western New York got 100 inches of snow from a storm.
"We know what it's like to experience extraordinary weather events, and we know how important the help of neighbors can be during recovery. That's why I am pleased that we are able to provide this support to our neighbors. It’s important that we all work together in times of need," Malloy said. "Connecticut remains well-prepared to for future extreme weather events – far more prepared than we were several years ago."
DOT Commissioner James Redeker said the crew members volunteered for the assignment and will work around the clock to complete the job.
States are typically reimbursed by the Federal Emergency management Agency for these costs, and the funds will not be taken from taxpayer money.
