Four hours after construction crews hit a 2-inch gas line leading to a gas leak near Meador Avenue, the Bellingham Fire Department reported the leak repair has been completed.
BFD reported around 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 12, that Cascade Natural Gas was on site and working to mitigate the issue after the leak started. Surrounding homes and businesses had been notified of the situation.
The repairs were completed around 2:30 p.m., according to BFD.
Construction crews have been repairing the Meador Avenue Bridge since May. The bridge, along with the James Street Bridge, cross Whatcom Creek and have timber piers that are deteriorating. Additionally, crews have been replacing existing water mains, relocating existing sanitary sewer infrastructure and franchise utility and mitigating storm water.
In the past 18 hours, there was one other construction snafu that has impacted Bellingham residents.
Construction crews struck an underground sewer line at the Electric Avenue bridge repair project on Wednesday, Sept. 11 at 5 p.m., sending between 25,000 to 50,000 gallons of sewage into Lake Whatcom. The line was shut off and sewer service was redirected to another line.
The city confirmed around noon the drinking water was safe to consume following testing.
Portions of Bloedel Donovan Park remain temporarily closed, including the beach until full test results are received, according to the city. Community members using the canoe launch, swimming area and Scudder pond are advised to avoid water contact.
Annie Todd is CDN’s criminal justice/enterprise reporter; reach her at annietodd@cascadiadaily.com; 360-922-3090 ext. 130.
