Work is ongoing to better understand the sources of hydrogen sulphide gas that caused the August 26 explosion in Wheatley.
After demolition of damaged buildings wrapped up on Friday, excavation began this week at 19 and 15 Erie Street North and 9 Talbot Trail West, at the site of the gas explosion. Municipal officials hope to discover any links between two potential sources of hydrogen sulphide, which have been wreaking havoc on the downtown core since early June.
Chatham-Kent General Manager of Infrastructure and Engineering Services Thomas Kelly said the pathway analysis is a key factor in determining how the gas is reaching the surface.
While the excavation is taking place, the municipality has deemed the site unsafe for all non-essential personnel to be within the evacuated area. However, during a short pause in work on Sunday, eight displaced residents were allowed back into their homes for a short period to retrieve personal effects.
Local residents have also reported a gas-like smell in the area. However, after reviewing on-site gas monitoring equipment, the municipality said it’s possible that ongoing construction activity is most likely the source of the smell.