FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Arrowhead Transit Prepares for Potential Wildfire Evacuations in North St. Louis County
[Gilbert, MN – May 13, 2025] — Arrowhead Transit is preparing for the possibility of large-scale emergency evacuations as wildfires continue to pose a threat to communities in North St. Louis County. While no evacuations have been ordered at this time, Arrowhead Transit is on standby and coordinating closely with emergency management officials, nursing homes, and hospitals to respond if needed.
Areas of concern include:
- Babbitt – Carefree Living nursing home: 32 residents needing transportation assistance.
- Ely – Carefree Living nursing home: Approximately 48 residents.
- Aurora – Essentia Health Hospital and attached nursing home: 33 hospital patients and 52 nursing home residents.
Arrowhead Transit has more than 10 drivers currently on standby, with 20 additional drivers preparing to mobilize if a call comes in. Many of these drivers are residents of the affected communities, making this response deeply personal for our team.
If needed, up to 60 buses will be deployed to safely evacuate those who require transit support, including individuals in wheelchairs or with limited mobility. Staff from all departments—including dispatch, maintenance, and administration—are ready to assist.
“We’re monitoring the situation by the hour and coordinating closely with care facilities and local emergency management,” said Dominick Olivanti, Communications Manager. “We are prepared to do whatever is necessary to keep people safe.”
At this time, all public transit services remain operational, including Dial-A-Ride and commuter routes. However, some standing ride appointments may be affected. Passengers are encouraged to call dispatch to confirm the status of their route during this emergency.
Our Company Updates
6:26 p.m. – No action has been taken by Arrowhead Transit at this time.
9:03 p.m. – Drivers are resting and awaiting further instruction from our management staff. No action has been taken.
For emergency transportation needs, contact
Sandra Wheelecor – Assistant Director of Operations: 218-735-6800
For evacuation orders, wildfire maps, and safety alerts, visit the St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office Wildfire Hub: https://sheriff-slcgis.hub.arcgis.com/pages/wildfire
Media Contact:
Dominick Olivanti
Communications Manager
Arrowhead Transit
218-735-6815 | arrowheadtransit.com