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Ann Arbor Will Keep and Invest in Outdoor Warning Sirens After Tornado Warning

City officials will use resident feedback to shape a report on how people want to receive emergency alerts.

Overview

  • City leaders confirmed the decision Wednesday after sirens sounded during a tornado warning, assuring residents the system will remain in place.
  • Officials had weighed retiring the network earlier this year because it was used only twice in five years and needs repairs.
  • Reported repair costs differ across coverage, with estimates of about $60,000 or about $180,000 over three years, plus roughly $17,000 a year for maintenance.
  • The city is reviewing public comments and preparing a report that will guide future siren maintenance and operations within the broader alert system.
  • Outdoor sirens are designed to get the attention of people who are outside and are tested monthly from March through October on the second Tuesday at 1 p.m.