Chapin, SC (Paul Kirby) - A gas line that was cut and leaking forced the closure of a key intersection for much of the day Tuesday while Dominion Energy crews worked to repair it. This happened on the doorsteps of Lexington County’s Crossroads Fire Station at Wessinger Road and Old Lexington Highway close to Chapin and Hilton.
Apparently, someone was digging in the area when they encroached on the right-of-way and hit the line that feeds natural gas to the area. After experiencing tremendous growth in that region, the residents, motorists, and utility services of two large peninsulas depend on that intersection to service the one way in, one way out roads. When the crossroads shuts down, it halts access to several very populated areas.
Units from the fire service and law enforcement officers coordinated to keep people back and the area safe while the Dominion teams worked. While most of the Chapin area fire resources were tied up at the leak, other trucks and personnel were moved into the area for coverage. The line was hit mid-morning and repaired mid-afternoon. The fire service was able to place the scene under control about 3:30 p.m. The intersection reopened a short while later.
Anyone who plans to dig must give notice to SC811, by law, three full working days prior to excavating. This does not include the day you called. You can do so simply by dialing 811 from your phone. Calling 811 and allowing them time to locate and mark any utility lines is a free service. Notifying SC811 of your planned excavation helps prevent damages that may result in fines, utility service interruption, injury, or even death. You can learn more about SC811 by going to their website at www.sc811.com.
