Here are five things worth knowing today:
1. Georgia works to reopen ports
Agencies are working to reopen Georgia’s ports after Hurricane Matthew caused damage to navigational aids, infrastructure and vessels along waterways. According to a Savannah Morning News report, the Ports of Savannah and Brunswick are a top priority, and Matthew damaged or destroyed approximately 50 navigational aids. According to the report, the Coast Guard is working with Georgia Ports Authority, the Army Corps of Engineers and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to reopen the ports. Agencies hope the ports will reopen in the next few days.
2. Emergency order issued for truckers helping with Matthew relief efforts
According to a WMKY report, Kentucky’s Transportation Cabinet issued an emergency order waiving the hours of service requirements for truck drivers delivering relief supplies and services to areas affected by Hurricane Matthew. The order, issued Friday, will expire on Nov. 7 at midnight, according to the report. Truck drivers are required to have a copy of the order in their cabs. WMKY has more.
3. NCDOT continues to deal with aftermath of Matthew
The North Carolina Department of Transportation continues to respond to the effects of Hurricane Matthew and ongoing flooding, the department reports. Drivers are being urged to visit ReadyNC.org or call 5-1-1 for road closures and traffic conditions. NCDOT has more.
4. New Jersey OKs 23-cent-per-gallon gas hike
New Jersey’s legislature approved a 23-cent-per-gallon gas tax increase on Friday that aims to replenish the fund that pays for the state’s roads, bridge and infrastructure projects, NorthJersey.com reports. According to the report, this is the first tax hike in 30 years. Once Gov. Chris Christie signs the bill, gas prices will increase within 15 days or on Nov. 1. NorthJersey.com has more.
5. City looks to limit garbage trucks
The City of Haverhill, MA, is attempting to lessen the impact of trucks hauling trash to Haverhill from other communities, or limit the trucks to state highways due to the early morning rumblings of passing trucks in residential neighborhoods, the Eagle-Tribune reports. Councilors are in the middle of questioning the legality of limiting truck traffic on state roads. Eagle-Tribune has more.
