UPDATED: Columbia to be opened to single-lane, alternating traffic shortly
By Kyra Hoggan
Public safety concern from gas-line break on Columbia is now over, leak is stopped and Castlegar Fire Department is standing down.
However, there are still repairs to be made, so it will only be open to single-lane, alternating traffic by about 6 p..m.
Previous coverage:
Columbia Avenue is completely shut down between No Frills and 11 Street, according to RCMP Top Cop Sgt. Laurel Mathew, who asked that residents avoid the area.
Fire Chief Sam Lattanzio said the call came in at 2:01 p.m. after contractors working on the Columbia Avenue upgrade project inadvertently hit a gas line.
“It surprised everyone that a gas service would be so close to the asphalt,” said city CAO Chris Barlow. “Fortis crews responded quickly to the scene and are working with city and contract forces to get the issue resolved as soon as possible.”
The repair could take several hours, and residents needing to travel between north and south Castlegar are asked to take the alternate route via the Robson Bridge (past the airport).
Parents should also be aware that this means many school buses will be arriving late.
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