LAWRENCE, MA (WBZ-AM)--The Baker Administration, the Mayor of Lawrence, leaders from Andover and North Andover along with Columbia Gas announce new temporary housing options for Merrimack Valley residents who still have no heat after the disastrous September 13th gas explosions and fires. According to Massachusetts Emergency Management, some 3,000 hotel rooms, 150 apartments, 360 travel trailers and a congregate shelter will be available for people who have no gas service to heat or cook with as cold weather approaches. Impacted Columbia Gas customers who need alternative housing should call 1-800-590-5571. A member of the Columbia Gas Housing Assistance Team will take information on family needs and arrange for appropriate housing.
All expenses for the program will be paid for by Columbia Gas so no one has have to go through a reimbursement process. Transportation arrangements have also been made with Uber and Lyft, also to be paid for by Columbia, for residents who need help.
Officials say already 340 families have been placed in alternative housing. The target for full restoration of gas service in the affected area is November 19th.
Head to ColumbiaGas.com/massachusetts/home for the latest information on the Greater Lawrence Area Restoration effort.