Newton mayor: Halloween will go on despite Sandy

By Deirdre Fernandes, Globe Staff

Newton schools will be back in session Wednesday and Halloween will go on as planned, according to Mayor Setti Warren, though he warned trick-or-treaters to be careful as they head into neighborhoods affected by Hurricane Sandy.

At a press conference Tuesday afternoon, the mayor gave an update on cleanup efforts after Sandy swept through the city.

There were still 3,100 homes without power, but Fire Chief Bruce Proia said NSTAR is "making headway" on restoring electricity. About 21 small roads, many in West Newton, still remained impassible as of Tuesday afternoon

There was still no definitive word from NSTAR on when all power would be restored, Warren said.

With branches and other debris still left from the storm, Warren recommended that residents trick-or-treat early and bring flashlights and take extra care on their neighborhood rounds.

Schools, which have been closed for two days because of Sandy, will reopen Wednesday, Warren said.

The Ward School had no power as of Tuesday afternoon, but Warren said officials were hopeful that electricity would be restored. School Superintendent David Fleishman will contact parents about the Ward School's status, Warren said.

Deirdre Fernandes can be reached at deirdre.fernandes@globe.com.