Ellicott City begins credentialing for restricted areas as flood recovery continues

Road blocks remain in Ellicott City, as continuing rain causes concern for locals, just weeks after horrendous flooding devastates the town for the second time in two years.

Howard County officials have continued to work on cleanup, which has been going on since the May 27 flood. But on Sunday, Relief efforts came to a standstill on Sunday, as locals were preparing for possible severe weather.

Road blocks were put up throughout the city, with drivers are turned away. A Flash Flood warning was in effect Sunday into Monday morning.

Officials say anyone who wants access to Main Street must be credentialed -- this includes business owners, residents and visitors.

Officials will be opening an area where people can get the credentials to get access at St. Peter Episcopal Church from 4 to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday during the week.

Those with credentials will be permitted into restricted zones from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Friday this week.

For those without credentials, the city is working to establish no-access zones to deter the public from areas made unsafe by the weather.

There will also be checkpoints, with one vehicle allowed per address in the restricted areas. Old Columbia Pike and Maryland Avenue will be the only ways out. There will be medical stations set up throughout the city.

Area residents are urged to not drink the water, and keep the sidewalks clear.

More information can be found from Howard County government.