Delaware Memorial Bridge Re-Opens After Gas Leak Causes Closure Nightmare
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NEW CASTLE, Del. (CBS) -- After more than six nightmarish hours, the Delaware Memorial Bridge re-opened Sunday night. Shortly before 5 p.m.. a leak of ethylene oxide from the nearby Croda Atlas Point plant was discovered, prompting the bridge closure.
Around 11:15 p.m., officials announced the leak was fully contained and pending final checks, the bridge opened in both directions.
"We deeply regret the significant inconvenience that this has had on the community and those travelling in the area," the plant said.
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Drivers were stuck in place for hours as the closure caused traffic jams for miles.
Holiday Traffic Headache- We talk with frustrated drivers and New Castle, DE residents told to shelter in place after a gas leak prompts the Delaware Memorial Bridge to shutdown
— Chantee Lans (@ChanteeLans) November 26, 2018
Details @CBSPhilly at 11 pic.twitter.com/8uQgJ8ioHZ
The plant was recently built on the Delaware side of the bridge.
Croda Atlas Point said in a statement on Monday that "the release of ethylene oxide has been contained."
"We are now conducting final preparations to start an inspection of the plant, so that our investigation can progress," the company said.
#VIDEO: Traffic backed up for miles in the northbound lanes of I-495 in New Castle County, Delaware after a gas leak prompts a shut down of Delaware Memorial Bridge in both directions @CBSPhilly pic.twitter.com/DYmNuNhLdk
— Chantee Lans (@ChanteeLans) November 26, 2018
The leak was not believed to be toxic, but was still considered at hazmat situation, New Castle County officials said.