Rupert Square Mall in Prince Rupert has reopened today following a temporary closure caused by water intrusion. Yesterday a leaking fire hydrant line along 2nd Avenue West, combined with heavy rainfall, created a high-pressure water table beneath the site. This resulted in water entering some tenant spaces within the mall.
As a safety precaution, the mall was closed while engineers conducted a thorough assessment. According to the Pollyco Group, which owns the mall, five engineers reviewed the site. After several hours of investigation, the Prince Rupert Fire Department confirmed that the building posed no safety risks, and the mall was cleared to reopen this morning.
While the mall is now open to the public, the sidewalk in front of the building along 2nd Avenue West remains closed. Pedestrian access to the mall from 2nd Avenue is restricted for the rest of the day as the City of Prince Rupert continues its investigation into possible sidewalk failure.
Pollyco Group told CFNR news via email that they are working in collaboration with city officials to determine what municipal infrastructure improvements are needed to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The public is advised to follow detour signs and avoid the closed area until further notice.
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