State back in business, but severe winter weather response continues

[February 03, 2011]  SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. Pat Quinn announced Wednesday that after implementation of the state's Continuity of Operations / Continuity of Government Plan, regular state operations will resume Thursday. The Illinois Department of Transportation, the Illinois State Police, the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and the Illinois Department of Central Management Services continue the response to winter weather across the state.

State employees who were directed to avoid traveling to work on Wednesday should report to work on Thursday. The safety of employees is of the utmost importance to the state, and all employees are urged to continue to use caution when traveling. Employees are also advised to allow for extra travel time while commuting.

"Thanks to the tireless efforts of dedicated public health and safety staff from multiple state agencies and the Illinois National Guard, we were able to maintain continuity of critical government services and response efforts -- despite the severity of this storm," the governor said. "The security of Illinois citizens remains our top priority. As the storm subsides, we will continue providing assistance to keep residents and motorists safe."

Information on continued essential state services and service locations for the public, as well as situation updates for state employees, will be available online at www.ready.illinois.gov. Employees without Internet access may call 866-848-2125 in Springfield and 866-848-2135 in Chicago for this information.

Motorists are still advised to travel with caution and can acquire up-to-date roadway conditions information at www.gettingaroundillinois.com or at www.travelmidwest.com.

On Monday, Quinn activated the State Emergency Operations Center in Springfield to coordinate the state's response to the storm. The governor also issued a disaster declaration for the entire state in advance of the heavy snow, ice and blizzard conditions, and activated Illinois National Guard troops to assist Illinois State Police in responding to stranded motorists.

[Text from file received from the Illinois Office of Communication and Information]