Gas leak causes evacuation of 2 block area

At 7:16 AM on Tuesday, September 6, 2011, a 6" natural gas pipe was struck during construction causing a 1" feed line to break loose, and subsequent leak, at the intersection of 12th St NW and Park Ave NW. In order to assure safety for all citizens and homeowners a 2 block area has been evacuated on Park Ave NW between 11th St NW and 14th St NW (there is no 1300 block on Park Ave) . Officers from the Bemidji Police Department evacuated homes in that area. Minnesota Energy is on scene and advises the repair should be complete in 1 1/2 to 2 hours. Motorists should carefully observe barricades in place and stay away from the area until further notice.

Residents gave their contact information to the officers as they evacuated and will be contacted by us when it is safe to return. If you are a resident who had already left your home this morning be advised that questions regarding the status of your natural gas will be addressed by calling MN Energy at 1-800-889-9508.

On scene to assist was the City of Bemidji Public Works, Bemidji Police Department, Minnesota Energy, Beltrami County Sheriff's Office, Bemidji Ambulance, Bemidji Fire and Citizens Patrol.

Any new information and/or notice of repairs completed will be sent as soon as the situation is resolved.

Mrs. Beryl Wernberg

911 Communications Supervisor/

Emergency Management Director

Beltrami County Sheriffs Office

613 Minnesota Ave NW

Bemidji, MN 56601

218-333-8320 or fax 2