Temporary fix at Plumley Village high-rise allows 120 families to return home
WORCESTER — The 120 families who were forced from their apartments during a Thanksgiving morning fire have returned to the Plumley Village high-rise.
The majority of displaced residents moved back in Saturday, with the remaining families returning Sunday, according to The Community Builders, the company that owns and manages the property at 16 Laurel St.
The Nov. 24 fire was mainly limited to an electrical room, but the damage resulted in the loss of power to much of the building. Workers scrambled to come up with a fix.
For now, according to the property owner, the solution is a temporary one.
"Last week, TCB directed its contractor to install an interim electrical system to safely restore power," The Community Builders said in a statement Monday. "The interim system was deployed in phases to each floor of the 16-story building, allowing a phased return of residents to their apartments over the weekend."
A permanent repair will be made in the coming months, with the work to take place while residents remain in their homes, according to the company.
During the week-plus power outage, the more than 300 residents of the high-rise found alternative housing, some staying with family or friends, and many being put up in hotels paid for by The Community Builders.
The community rallied around the displaced residents, with donations of food, gift cards and meals.
More:Worcester caterer serves up food — and comfort — for displaced Plumley Village residents
This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: With power out since Thanksgiving, residents return to Plumley Village
