The response effort continues to evolve from an emergency phase to an investigative, assessment and clean-up phase with safety as the top priority. The response is being managed by a unified command involving federal, state and local officials, and representatives of Olympic Pipe Line Company. Personal safety of the public and responders continues to be a priority. For safety reasons we continue to encourage the public to stay away from Whatcom Falls Park and other burned areas.
Work continues to develop a plan to excavate the damaged section of the pipe.
For that to happen, it has been determined that a rerouting of the water pipe servicing the area south of the water treatment plant is needed. Additionally, an alternate above-ground water pipe will be temporarily installed to service the area north of the plant. This effort could take as along as a couple of weeks, and will be accomplished prior to excavating at the rupture site. Governor Locke is touring the site today to express sympathy to the Bellingham community. Bellingham Police and Fire Chiefs have scheduled a noon press briefing at the Bellingham Police Department Training Room at 505 Grand Ave.