State, Cities Respond To Gas Shortages Caused By Pipeline Leak

The Colonial pipeline leak in Alabama is having a ripple effect throughout the Southeast, including here in North Carolina.

In a statement Monday, Gov. Pat McCrory said he has asked all state agencies to consider limiting fuel use where they can. He is also asking residents to watch out for price gouging and report it if they see it.

Meanwhile, Winston-Salem officials have ordered all city non-emergency and non-sanitation vehicles to park until further notice. That means scheduled inspections, parks and recreation field maintenance, and minor repair work will be postponed. However, police, fire and waste removal services will not be affected.

Since the 250,000 gallon leak was discovered Sept. 9th, motorists have started to feel the effects at the pump. Prices have inched upwards and some area gas stations have reported shortages of certain grades of fuel.

State officials say the construction of a bypass pipeline is expected to be completed by mid-week, and in service by Friday.

In the meantime, Colonial is using a secondary line to offset the consumer impact of the leak.