Fire Officials: Gas Leak Mitigated Near U Of M Campus

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Minneapolis fire officials say the gas leak near the University of Minnesota campus has been mitigated and occupants of surrounding buildings have been cleared to return.

According to the fire department, CenterPoint shut the gas off, stopping the leak.

Shortly after 3 p.m., fire officials reported a 12-inch gas main was ruptured by a bulldozer on 4th St. SE and 29th Ave. SE, causing gas to vent into the air.

All buildings in a one-block area were evacuated and traffic in the area was closed. The Light Rail Service near the area was also discontinued.

Now, Minneapolis fire officials say all buildings have been cleared besides the building under construction and occupants are allowed to return.

Centerpoint spokeswoman Becca Virden released a statement, saying: "Evac lifted. Light rail informed all clear and University and all streets opened back up for traffic. The area is safe and back to normal operations."

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• Gas Leak