UPDATE:
FortisBC has confirmed that Burnside Road has re-opened to traffic, though Douglas Street is still partially closed.
Their crews are finishing up the repairs and once they are done, Douglas Street will re-open to traffic.
ORIGINAL:
If you commute in and around Douglas and Burnside, you may want to plan an alternate route.
Following a major gas leak, the area around Douglas and Burnside, at the former Ricky’s Grill, has been closed off to the public and won’t open up again until the needed repairs are completed.
Buildings around the area were evacuated for safety and people in the area have also reported hearing a loud hissing sound due to the leak.
A FortisBC spokesperson confirmed to Victoria Buzz that crews are onsite at 2900 Douglas Street in Victoria and are currently assessing the damage to a natural gas line that was caused by an external party.
Allegedly, crews were working in the area to remove the old Ricki’s building that was destroyed by fire in the summer and a gas line was struck during the process.
The fire department is onsite and closed Burnside Road between Douglas Street and Manchester Road as well as two lanes on Douglas Street between Hillside Ave and Burnside Road.
Fortis, the fire department, and police are currently on scene to ensure the safety of crew members and the surrounding public.
It’s been advised to avoid the area if you can.
More updates will be provided as the information comes in.
