Fort Worth's downtown businesses were temporarily shuttered due to a natural gas leak near the 777 Main St. tower, according to officials. Atmos Energy technicians promptly addressed the gas leak, which led to business disruptions but required no evacuations. An Atmos spokesperson assured, "The safety of the public, our employees and our system is our highest priority," as cited by the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.
The gas leak's fallout reached local establishments, forcing closures that included Adam Jones' restaurant Grace, which was unable to start operating Tuesday night. "I can sacrifice sales for the safety of my staff and customers," Jones said. Jones, along with Steve Till from the Petroleum Club, navigated the uncertainties as their businesses relied on natural gas for kitchen operations. Following repair completion, Grace joyfully announced on Facebook their reopening on Thursday at 4 p.m., according to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.
In the shadow of the recent Sandman Signature Hotel explosion in downtown Fort Worth, scrutiny of gas safety has been intensified. Atmos Energy has concluded that its systems were not at fault for the Sandman incident and is cooperating with ongoing investigations. Despite this, employees and family members affected by the explosion have initiated legal action. Individuals noticing the gas odor were commended for doing the right thing by reporting it immediately.
Concurrently, another gas leak in the vicinity was addressed by Atmos Energy after reports of the scent of gas around Jones' other restaurant at 7th and Commerce Street. "For my leak on Commerce Street, we talked to supervision, and they have been extremely helpful," Jones expressed. With gas service restored late Thursday afternoon, both Grace and the Petroleum Club were notified they could resume regular operations, as per WFAA.
Though the issues have been resolved, the incidents have drawn attention to the need for vigilant gas safety awareness among Fort Worth's citizens and businesses. Local fire officials continued to encourage the public to report any suspicions of natural gas leaks, emphasizing the fire department's readiness to swiftly assist in ensuring safety. "We were concerned about the safety of anybody that was in or around the Sand Man Hotel," Steve Till conveyed, illustrating the gravity of potential gas-related dangers, as noted by WFAA.
