Residents of the Town of Argyle should prepare for the sounds and smells of maintenance, as Atmos Energy kicks off routine work that will run on select days between May 6 and May 16. According to an advisory on Atmos Energy's schedule, they'll be conducting operations at 1350 Stonecrest Road, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., which are set for May 7, 8, 9, 13, and 14.

The work will lead to the controlled release of natural gas, a process that, while supposedly safe, will send a "rotten egg" odor wafting through the air, courtesy of the additive mercaptan. The odorant's purpose is to alert people to gas leaks, which will ironically be the scent of the day during operation times. Although the distinctive smell and sounds of venting gas are expected, Atmos Energy assures that residents in the area will not experience any service interruption while the work is being done.

Getting ahead of the curve with public awareness, Atmos has also informed city staff, public officials, 911 operators, and emergency responders about the ongoing work. Having briefed these critical groups ensures that they won’t be flooded with calls from startled residents when they hear the hissing of gas or catch the engineered smell that signals a problem under normal circumstances.

During the action that will result in the removal of the gas, it was noted by the Denton County Emergency Services District #1 that while Atmos Energy customers will not be affected service-wise, people hanging around the Stonecrest Road area during these operations could be smelling mercaptan.

While the idea of a gas leak can be alarming, Atmos Energy has moved to reassure the local population that this short period of noise and odor will be just a blip in their daily lives – a necessary intrusion for the sake of upkeep. And after the curtains fall on May 16, things are expected to go back to their odorless, silent reverie in the Argyle community.