Snow-Covered Terrace Street Worksite Sparks Lawsuit Over Gas Line Damage
It was just after 8 a.m. on a cold February morning near the intersection of Terrace Street and 31st Street in the Brookside neighborhood when crews began excavation despite thick snow covering the ground. The usual bright markings that signal underground utilities were invisible under the frozen white blanket. Residents heading to work or school that day had no idea the disruption beneath their feet would soon lead to a major legal battle.
What Happened on Terrace Street
Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway has filed a lawsuit against Homoly Construction, accusing the company of violating state underground safety laws during excavation on Terrace Street in Kansas City. The lawsuit, filed in Jackson County Circuit Court, alleges that on February 9, 2024, Homoly Construction started digging without notifying Missouri 811, the state’s mandatory utility notification center.
According to the suit, the snow-covered worksite made utility markings unusable, a condition that requires excavators to alert Missouri 811 before proceeding. Homoly Construction allegedly ignored this requirement and struck a Spire gas line during the excavation. State law demands that excavators notify Missouri 811 at least two business days before digging and to update them if weather conditions obscure markings.
The lawsuit seeks to impose a $10,000 daily penalty on Homoly Construction, stop further violations, and mandate that all company managers and supervisors complete Missouri 811’s excavator safety training. A court hearing is scheduled for 9 a.m. on June 2. Homoly Construction President Andrew Homoly denies the allegations, stating the company does not perform trenching and has received no official notice.
Why This Matters to Kansas City Residents
This incident is not just a legal dispute between a construction company and the state. It directly affects thousands of Kansas City households, especially those living near Terrace Street in the Brookside and Waldo neighborhoods. A damaged gas line is a serious safety hazard that could lead to gas leaks, fires, or explosions. Such events can cause evacuations, property damage, and even loss of life.
Beyond safety, residents face potential disruptions in gas service, which means no heating or cooking during cold months—an urgent problem in winter. Traffic on nearby streets like 31st Street and Wornall Road could be shut down for emergency repairs, causing significant delays for commuters and local businesses. The financial burden of repairs or temporary housing during outages adds another layer of stress for affected families.
Ignoring the risks or delays in reporting damage can escalate these consequences. If a gas line is struck and not properly reported or repaired, the danger multiplies. The lawsuit highlights the importance of strict adherence to safety laws designed to protect Kansas City residents from these very risks.
If You Encounter a Similar Situation: What to Do Immediately
- Stop all excavation or digging activities immediately.
- Move away from the excavation site and warn others to keep clear.
- Call 911 if you detect a gas smell, hear hissing, or see signs of a gas leak.
- Notify Missouri 811 right away to report the damage and request emergency assistance.
- Contact Spire Energy to report the incident and check on gas service status.
- Document the scene with photos and notes, including date, time, and any communications.
- Inform your neighbors and local authorities to prevent further exposure or accidents.
When Local Professional Help Becomes Necessary
If you are a homeowner or business owner affected by gas line damage, you need to contact professional help immediately. First, licensed contractors experienced in gas line repair are essential to safely restore service and prevent further hazards. Attempting DIY repairs is extremely dangerous and illegal.
Legal assistance becomes necessary if your property suffers damage or you face liability issues stemming from excavation work. Lawyers familiar with Missouri’s underground utility laws can guide you through claims, insurance, and potential lawsuits.
Additionally, if you are planning any excavation or construction work yourself, hiring certified planners or contractors who understand Missouri 811 regulations is critical. They ensure proper notification and adherence to safety protocols, preventing costly mistakes and legal trouble.
Local Context: Why Kansas City Residents Should Pay Attention
Terrace Street is a well-traveled corridor connecting the Brookside and Waldo neighborhoods, both vibrant communities with many families and local businesses. Residents on nearby Wornall Road and 31st Street pass through this area daily—whether commuting to work, school, or visiting the iconic Loose Park just blocks away.
Gas line safety isn’t just an abstract rule; it’s a matter of protecting your household, your neighborhood, and your daily routine. This lawsuit serves as a stark reminder that ignoring safety procedures can lead to dangerous and expensive consequences for everyone in Kansas City.
Where This Is Happening in Kansas
The incident took place on Terrace Street near its intersection with 31st Street, nestled between the Brookside and Waldo neighborhoods. This area is close to landmarks like Loose Park, a popular green space for residents. Nearby thoroughfares such as Wornall Road and Gregory Boulevard see heavy traffic and connect several residential and commercial zones.
Local schools, small businesses, and families rely on uninterrupted gas service and safe infrastructure. Many commuters use these streets daily, making any disruption a community-wide concern. Missouri 811, based in Jefferson City but serving all of Missouri, is the state’s central notification system that coordinates safe digging practices to prevent accidents like the one on Terrace Street.
