Update: Gas leak near Meador Avenue Bridge repaired

Four hours after construction crews encountered a 2-inch-thick gas line that caused a gas leak near Meador Avenue, the Bellingham Fire Department reported that repairs to the leak were complete.

BFD reported around 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, September 12, that Cascade Natural Gas was on site working to fix the problem after the leak occurred. Surrounding homes and businesses were notified of the situation.

The repair work was completed around 2:30 p.m., the BFD said.

Since May, construction crews have been repairing the Meador Avenue Bridge. The bridge, like the James Street Bridge, spans Whatcom Creek and has wooden piers that are deteriorating. In addition, crews have replaced existing water mains, relocated existing sewer infrastructure and franchise utilities, and mitigated stormwater.

In the last 18 hours, there has been further construction chaos affecting the residents of Bellingham.

At 5 p.m. on Wednesday, September 11, construction workers repairing the Electric Avenue bridge hit an underground sewer line, causing between 25,000 and 50,000 gallons of sewage to leak into Lake Whatcom. The line was shut off and sewage service was diverted to another line.

Around midday, the city confirmed after tests that the drinking water was safe for consumption.

Parts of Bloedel Donovan Park, including the beach, will remain temporarily closed until full test results are available, according to the city. Community members using the canoe launch, swimming area and Scudder Pond are advised to avoid contact with water.

Annie Todd is CDN's criminal justice and business reporter; she can be reached at [email protected]; 360-922-3090 ext. 130.