A major road in southwest Vancouver will remain closed for "at least a week" as the investigation into a fire and collapsed crane takes place.
A section of West 41st Avenue in Dunbar has been closed since a fire at a construction site near Collingwood Street started at 6:30 p.m. on Aug. 6. As a result of the fire, a crane at the site collapsed, falling across 41st and onto a house across the street.
The crane will remain where it fell for now, according to the city, as planning begins for its removal.
"Efforts to remove the collapsed crane are underway," reads an email from a city representative to V.I.A. "This is a joint effort involving the property owner, qualified contractors, the City of Vancouver, and relevant organizations such as WorkSafeBC, and is expected to begin in the coming days."
However, it won't be moved for at least a week, if not longer.
"The duration is primarily due to the complexity of planning, equipment, and qualified workers required to safely dismantle and remove the collapsed tower crane," reads the email. "This process involves multiple steps, including ensuring worker and general site safety, coordinating logistics, and complying with regulations set by WorkSafeBC."
Nearby, Dunbar Street remains open, as does South West Marine Drive. However, there are other road closures.
"Road closures remain in place to ensure safety between West 40th and 41st avenues and Collingwood and Blenheim streets," states the city in a press release.
In the same update, the city notes that 81 people were displaced by the fire, but some can return now.
"All residents may now return home, with the exception of [residents of] five homes, which are unsafe to occupy. Residents of these five homes who have not registered with ESS should register by calling 311 as soon as possible.:
Power has also been returned to the area.
While the crane will remain, clean-up efforts are underway.
"The City has dispatched sanitation teams to clean up debris from the fire. The debris is not considered a significant health concern for most people. Those who would like to clean up debris themselves should ensure that they have the proper personal safety equipment," states the city in the release.
