Operational Impacts from Downtown Gas Explosion

TO:  Vice Presidents, Vice Provosts, Deans, Directors, Department Heads, and Managers
FROM:  Kyle Cavanaugh, Vice President for Administration, Emergency Coordinator
RE:  Operational Impacts from Downtown Gas Explosion

As of Friday morning, the two Duke buildings located closest to the downtown gas explosion on Wednesday remain closed due to hazardous conditions. No entry is allowed at this time to the buildings at 710 and 700 W. Main Street.

We continue to offer support to the 10 faculty and staff injured during the incident, and arrangements have been made to temporarily relocate individuals and operations that were housed in the two buildings that remain closed. To the extent possible, personal belongings, equipment and other items have been recovered from those sites and are being distributed to their owners.

Other downtown buildings in the area, including the Chesterfield, Carmichael, and Brightleaf buildings, are open and operating normally. Several roads near the site of the explosion remain closed, including N. Duke Street, W. Main Street, and W. Morgan Street. Individuals should avoid that area.

Duke’s downtown shuttle continues to operate on a modified schedule due to restricted access to roads. The shuttle cannot service the Chesterfield stop at this time, and passengers should expect significant delays due to ongoing traffic congestion in the area. For more information about the downtown shuttle, including real-time shuttle tracking, visit the Parking & Transportation Services website.

We deeply appreciate the patience and support offered by so many to address the needs of those impacted by this tragic event. The effects of this event will likely linger for some time for many departments located near the explosion. Any future operational changes will be communicated directly by the appropriate departments. For those who need support, the Personal Assistance Service is available to individual appointments or group meetings. Thank you.