BATTLE CREEK, Mich., May 18, 2025 — The City of Battle Creek continues its storm recovery efforts following the severe weather event last week. As of today, most roads in the hardest-hit areas are now passable. However, residents and motorists should remain cautious, as many streets still have debris piles that may obstruct traffic flow. Additionally, downed wires remain a hazard in several locations.
Consumers Energy is making significant progress in restoring power across the city, according to the latest outage maps.
As of Sunday afternoon, the following roads remain closed due to trees entangled with power lines:
- Central St between Emmett St E and Pleasantview Dr
- Orchard Ave between Emmett St E and Merwood Dr
- Meachem Ave between Eldred St and Burnham St E (Transit Route)
- Logan St between Territorial Rd E and Mineral Ave
- Scenery Ave between Territorial Rd E and Mineral Ave
- Tennyson Ave between Capital Ave SW and Harrison St
- Territorial Rd E near Riverside Dr – one lane blocked
- Territorial Rd W between Arbor St and Woodrow Ave S (Transit Route)
City crews are actively working today to check each closed street and reopen them as soon as it’s safe. If any trees remain tangled with power lines, we’ll notify Consumers Energy right away for assistance.
In addition to clearing roads, our teams are starting to remove debris piles and will address city-owned trees that have fallen onto private property when possible. Our Risk Management team is also tracking and documenting any property damage involving city trees.
We sincerely thank everyone for your patience and support as we continue working to restore safety and accessibility across Battle Creek.
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BATTLE CREEK, Mich., May 16, 2025 — The City of Battle Creek is advising residents to be cautious of unlicensed contractors and door-to-door solicitors offering storm-related repair services in the aftermath of Thursday night’s severe weather.
After major storms, it’s common for individuals—often from out of state and lacking proper licensing—to go door-to-door offering construction or cleanup services. These individuals may pressure residents to sign contracts or pay upfront. Here are a few key reminders:
- All contractors must be licensed and insured under Michigan law.
- Construction work within city limits requires proper permits.
- Door-to-door vendors must have a city vendor’s permit and display a city-issued ID badge.
Residents are encouraged to ask for identification and verify vendor status. If someone comes to your door without proper ID, ignores a “No Soliciting” sign, or causes concern, please call the Battle Creek Police Department’s non-emergency line at 269-781-0911.
For questions about licensed vendors or home repairs, call 269-966-3311. A list of licensed vendors is available on the city website.
Storm Recovery Update
City water and sewer services remain operational. Crews are rotating between lift stations to provide temporary power as needed and will continue doing so through the weekend until power is restored.
Some roads remain closed while we await safety clearance from Consumers Energy. In the meantime, Department of Public Works crews are working to clear fallen trees and storm debris from accessible areas as quickly and safely as possible.
Traffic Safety Reminder
If you approach an intersection where the traffic signal is out, treat it as a four-way stop. Yield appropriately and stay alert to keep everyone safe.
Spring Cleanup: May 19-23
The city’s annual curbside spring cleanup will take place Monday, May 19 through Friday, May 23. While this event is not related to the recent storm, the timing may help residents dispose of yard waste and other materials.
- This service is available only to residents within city limits.
- Place bagged materials neatly at the curb on your regular trash pickup day during cleanup week.
To further assist with yard waste disposal, the city will open Brice Pit from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, May 18. Brice Pit is located at 715 W. River Road and is open to residents living within city limits.
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