GSO conserve release

CITY OF GREENSBORO

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                    Contact:          Nancy Lindemeyer

                                                                                                Phone:  373-2105

CITY OF GREENSBORO URGES GASOLINE CONSERVATION

 IN WAKE OF HURRICANE KATRINA

GREENSBORO, NC (August 31, 2005 – 6:15 pm) – City officials joined Mayor Holliday at a press conference this evening to discuss a temporary reduction in fuel supplies to our area caused by the effects of Hurricane Katrina. In response to this situation, City officials are taking proactive measures to conserve fuel and reduce gas consumption for the 2000+ vehicles and gas-powered equipment in the City’s fleet. Local residents and businesses are encouraged to join in this effort and conserve fuel where possible.

            Interim City Manager Mitch Johnson stressed that public safety and essential city services are not impacted by this situation.  While there is not a severe shortage at this time, the City is urging conservation in order to prevent the situation from worsening.

City of Greensboro conservation efforts at this time include:

·         Contacting local fuel suppliers to gather additional fuel supplies

·         Encouraging City employees to carpool, and to consolidate vehicle trips

·         Reducing non-essential services such as mowing of parks and green spaces

Residents are encouraged to:

·         Eliminate unnecessary travel – vacation at home this Labor Day weekend

·         Carpool, vanpool or take public transit whenever possible

·         Reduce use of gasoline-powered equipment including lawnmowers, leaf blowers, etc.

City officials will update residents regarding any changes in the fuel supply situation, however, conservation measures undertaken over the next few days by city departments, businesses and residents should ensure an adequate and steady fuel supply for the future.

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