City of Utica Responds to Gas Leak at Algonquin Apartments; All Residents and Pets Safely Relocated
UTICA, NY — Earlier today, during a scheduled outreach effort coordinated between the City of Utica, Oneida County, and community service agencies to assist residents of the Algonquin Apartments, a gas leak was identified within the building. As a result, the immediate evacuation of the premises became necessary to protect the health and safety of all occupants.
The Utica Fire Department and National Grid responded rapidly, shutting off all power and gas to the building. Due to the proactive presence of City, County, and service provider teams already on-site, officials were able to quickly implement a coordinated response plan that ensured all residents—and their pets—were safely relocated to emergency shelter.
Long-term housing plans are now being developed for each tenant, and support services will continue to be offered to all impacted individuals.
Mayor Michael P. Galime issued the following statement:
“While planned to happen on June 3rd we had to make the real-time decision to immediately board and close the Algonquin. I am incredibly grateful to everyone who played a role in turning today’s emergency into a coordinated success. City of Utica departments of Codes, DPW, Urban and Economic Development, UFD and UPD all had a hand in today efforts as well as, our partners at the County, and the many dedicated service providers—this was a true team effort. From the beginning, this response has been driven by compassion and a shared commitment to doing what’s right.
Special thanks to Vin Scalise and the Utica Center for Development for opening their doors and working creatively with us to support affected residents. As of now, the building has been boarded up, and we remain committed to continuing our outreach and providing services for the tenants of the Algonquin.”
The City of Utica will continue to provide updates.
