Officials say Merrimack Valley restoration project 'substantially complete'

LAWRENCE, Mass. — Columbia Gas and local officials say service has been restored to 98 percent of residents affected by September's gas explosions and fires.

But despite the progress, the job is not done.

Columbia Gas originally set a Nov. 19 deadline to restore all service to Columbia Gas customers, which was soon pushed to Dec. 16, after thousands lost their gas service on Sept. 13 when over pressurized gas lines caused fires and explosions, forcing the shutoff.

On Wednesday, Gov. Charlie Baker, along with Columbia Gas executives and town managers gathered in Lawrence to provide an update on the "substantial completion" of restoring gas service to homes and businesses in the Merrimack Valley.

"While this is obviously a significant milestone, it is not a mission accomplished," Baker said.

Since the restoration began, 7,500 residential and business meters have been re-lit and nearly 18,500 new appliances including boilers, furnaces and rangers have been installed. Two percent of the families affected have decided to do repairs themselves.

"We’re going to maintain a pretty significant and aggressive presence in terms of supporting people if they have questions and concerns going forward here," added Baker.

Phase one of the state's restoration plan saw more than 43 miles of gas main lines repaired by more than 5,000 workers. Though that is significant progress -- the toll on families has been heavy.

For months, families camped out in trailers during freezing temperatures and kids missed school.

During Wednesday's meeting, Lawrence Mayor Daniel Rivera acknowledged the struggle so many faced over the past few months.

"Thank you for not rioting, which you had every, absolutely every reason, to have done," he said. “The top priority for me has always been to get residents back into their homes with heat and hot water, and today, that is where we are.”

More key facts and figures since the restoration process began on Sept. 13: ​​​​​​

•    Approximately 25,000 smoke and carbon monoxide detectors distributed.  
•    24,417 claims received, with 17,227 resolved to date.

•   $77.96 million has been paid out to customers, including $19.47 million to business customers.

•    More than 2,200 families, approximately 8,000 individuals, utilized Columbia Gas-and MEMA-provided temporary housing.

Phase two of the restoration is scheduled for this spring.

MORE: Will Columbia Gas make Dec. 16 restoration deadline for Merrimack Valley customers?

Cox Media Group