Inspector: Neighboring Rowhomes Not In Danger Of Collapse

Officials said Tuesday that connected rowhomes in the 800 block of Pine Street in Bristol Borough should be safe after the wall of a unit collapsed the day prior.

A structural engineer evaluated the end unit where a wall partly collapsed at the corner of Pine and Spring streets in Bristol Borough. While the engineer’s report is not yet completed, the home at 847 Pine Street is now sealed off and barricaded.

The homeowner, identified in county records as William Brown, first reported concerns over the wall last February 21. By the end of that day, Bristol officials were at the rowhome and condemned the end unit, borough inspector and code enforcement officer John Miller said.

“The resident was not supposed to be living in that house until a a structural engineering report was turned over to the borough,” he said.

The survey was never reportedly furnished to the borough.

Borough inspectors drove by the home every week and observed the condition of the wall, which was noticeably worse Monday morning when it appeared bowed and cracked. Crews were dispatched to put up barricades. The wall partially collapsed shortly before 5 p.m. and caused a gas leak.

Until the borough engineer ‘s report is finished, the future of the circa-1917 property is in limbo. Miller said he has been touch with the resident and his insurance company.

Several neighbors were temporarily evacuated Monday evening while crews stopped the gas leak and evaluated the damage. A portion of Spring Street will remain closed until the future of the home is determined.

Fire police will be stationed outside the home during the overnight hours to ensure the safely of residents and the homeowner’s property, Miller said.