Steam Pipe Explosion Intersection Back Open

The intersection of Lexington Avenue and East 41st Street has reopened after two months of clean-up and repair work. In July 18, an over-100 years old steam pipe exploded, killing one person and seriously injuring two others, while causing millions in damages. Described by the Mayor as a failure of infrastructure, Con Ed has been under criticism for failing to recognize a problem could occur. The utility said last month that an investigation could take 2-3 months.

One of the victims, a 21-year-old man whose tow truck was parked over the steam pipe and who suffered burns over 80% of his body, was awoken from his medically induced coma the other week. He and a few other parties are suing Con Ed and the city for negligence.

Photograph of some August clean-up work by bronx10452 on Flickr