Dear Residents,
The last 36 hours has been different from what Goshen has ever experienced. In March of 1982 the Elkhart River hit its highest point at 11.89 feet. As of now the Elkhart River is at 12.4 feet in Goshen with a projection of 13.2 feet before this is over. The City of Goshen has closed Plymouth Ave, Lincoln Ave, and Pike Street river crossings. Our city has been divided in half by this flood. Both the City of Goshen and Elkhart have declared a State of Emergency (attached).
The City of Goshen will be asking everyone to limit travel as much as possible. If you need groceries or need to get to and from work that is ok. Please do not drive around to get pictures. It is essential that you respect all City, County and State Crews as well as all first responders. We have had multiple situations of drivers driving around barricades and then getting submerged because the water is deeper than it looks. We then have to put our first responders at risk and use valuable staff time to pull out a car that should not have even been there in the first place. Please be safe!
If you are asked to evacuate we would respectfully ask you to listen to our suggestion. The City has had to evacuate several areas and NIPSCO had to shut off both electric and gas services to these areas. Please know we will not suggest it if we don’t believe there is a true threat. If you choose to stay in your home that is your right and we will respect it.
We will continue to give updates as often as possible. Many of us in the City have been working hard since 2:30am this morning and are committed to doing everything we can to help manage this disaster and help make sure you stay safe.
Shelter locations (24hrs):
First Baptist Church, at the Corner of Plymouth Ave. and Indiana Ave., 533-3139, please use door number 4 when you arrive. 1011 South Indiana Ave.
Maple City Chapel, near Menards, 533-0327, 2015 Lincolnway East
Do not hesitate to notify the City and please help keep an eye on your neighbors.
Sincerely,
Mayor Jeremy Stutsman
