AmeriGas is conducting a controlled burn-off of the gas in a leaking propane tank near the University of Richmond's C-61 lot -- known to many students as X-lot -- and the Weinstein Center for Recreation and Wellness.
The controlled burn-off of the gas in the tank will probably last for about 10-12 hours, said Dave McCoy, University Chief of Police. Then, AmeriGas can go in and repair the tank, he said.
When asked by The Collegian around 4:45 p.m., Assistant Chief of Police Beth Simonds said that the burn-off had started about 15 minutes prior.
Students should avoid the area and not cross the designated boundaries for the next 24 hours, University Facilities wrote in an email to the campus community.
Authorities were notified of the Friday afternoon leak after someone had reported it, McCoy said.
“Someone called in a leak, we responded -- obviously the smell," he said. "Richmond Fire responded, as well as AmeriGas."
The leak had impacted dryers in the gym because they use gas, McCoy said, but nearby Moore Hall and other residences are not significantly affected. UR did not conduct evacuations.
Contact news and content editor Katherine Schulte at katherine.schulte@richmond.edu.
Support independent student media
You can make a tax-deductible donation by clicking the button below, which takes you to our secure PayPal account. The page is set up to receive contributions in whatever amount you designate. We look forward to using the money we raise to further our mission of providing honest and accurate information to students, faculty, staff, alumni and others in the general public.
Donate NowRead More
