Clean-up efforts continue in Hutchinson following a gas line explosion in the city's downtown area last weekend.

 

A large portion of the downtown area remains closed almost a week after the incident occurred. Public works crews continue to secure gas lines and make needed repairs, though no timeline has been announced as to when the downtown area will re-open.

 

Most of the downtown area was evacuated last Saturday following reports of a strong odor of natural gas at one of the downtown businesses. Shortly after the Hutchinson Fire Department arrived on the scene, the gas line exploded. All occupants were able to safely escape the blast and no injuries were reported.

 

City officials stress that coordination between the city and utility companies will be essential in restoring the downtown area to full operation.