Holiday, School Vacations Ease Post-Storm Pressure

The Presidents Day’ holiday and school vacations helped ease pressures following the weekend storm.

Police describe the hole in Swan Street as “big enough to swallow up a car.” (Methuen Police photograph.)

Methuen reports at least two water main breaks and Haverhill reports weekend towing of cars parked in defiance of an on-street ban.

Methuen Police said the city’s public works department attacked water main breaks on Swan Avenue and East Street. Police described the hole in Swan Street as “big enough to swallow up a car.” Methuen residents are asked to report any instances of water coming up from the street or run off. The city’s water department may be reached at (978) 983-8855.

police_challenge_coinDespite the inconveniences, the two departments took conditions in stride and announced a “Snowpocolypse Photo Contest.” Police asked residents to use Facebook to send them their favorite winter weather photo and caption. Winners will receive a Methuen Police Challenge Coin. The deadline for submissions is next Sunday, Feb. 22, and the winner will be chosen and announced Monday, Feb. 23, at noon.

Haverhill Mayor James J. Fiorentini said 20 cars were towed in Haverhill. The mayor banned all on-street parking as part of his “Extreme” snow emergency declaration, which ended last night.

Local bus service and commuter rail is operating on a Saturday schedule. The MBTA said there will be, however, “significant delays and several canceled trips” because of switch, signal and mechanical issues with locomotives.

Trash and recycling pickup is on a holiday schedule.