The City of Merritt says people with properties in Phase 3 of the return home plan will be allowed back starting Sunday, Dec. 5, pending a final water test.

In a statement, City staff say those results are expected back in the next 48 to 72 hours.

“We will let residents know the status of the last water sample on Saturday, Dec. 4,” Assistant Emergency Information Officer, Alan Stebbing said. “If the last water sample comes back clean – free of hydrocarbons and contamination – residents in Phase 3 can expect to return home on Sunday.”

Speaking to NL News, Stebbing says there is a good chance that the test results will come back clear

“City staff have been working very closely with Environmental Health at Interior Health,” he said. “There is a strong likelihood that these likelihood that these tests will come back clear and we’ll be able to move to a boil water advisory which paves the way for bring people back for Phase 3.”

Merrittonians who live in a supportive living facility like the Cold Weather Shelter or Juniper House will be contacted directly about the timeline regarding heir facilities.

Stebbing says the City of Merritt is able to ease more evacuation orders as the dikes along the Coldwater River were not damaged by flooding this week.

“The City Public Works crew has been working since Day 1 to do this. We brought in contractors. We had our colleagues with the Armed Forces arrive,” he said. “Its been quite incredible to see how much work has actually been done to see how much work has been done to reinforce the banks of the Coldwater to keep that river in its channel.”

“I mean there’s still a lot of work to be done, but people are taking a moment to savour allowing more people back but definitely it was only a moment and then right back to work.”

Phase 4 Day Access Starting Dec. 2

As well, people who live properties that are part of Phase 4 of the return home plan will be allowed daily access to their properties as of today, Dec. 2. People will be able to check on their properties, collect valuables, and make repairs until 7 p.m. every day.

“Residents of Phase 4 must be aware of the hazards and potential dangers that come with accessing this Phase,” Stebbing said.

“Some roadways are not accessible due to infrastructure damage such as buckled sidewalks and roads and eroded road shoulders. Other hazards include closed-off areas; contaminated soils; sinkholes; and extensive debris, mud, and water.”

In a statement, Mayor Linda Brown said they also want to ensure that people who aren’t able to go back home have the supports they need.

There are still some hazardous areas and we ask people who are accessing their homes to take all appropriate precautions and keep away from damaged streets and any risks around your home,” Brown added.

Phase 4 properties also remain on a do not consume water advisory, with the City saying people should not use water for any reason. Some homes may have damage to electrical or gas equipment, and people are also being told to not turn on any equipment until it has been inspected by a licensed gas or electrical contractor.

Unlike the rest of Merritt, these homes remain on an evacuation order and people have to leave at a moment’s notice.

“Day access to Merritt may be suspended pending weather forecasting and river level activity,” Stebbing said.

Merrittonians who need a ride home by bus are being told to contact the ESS Transportation Line at 250-378-8632.

“ESS will arrange transportation for people who live in residences that are not in the evacuation order area, this will be checked by looking at the address on your ID before boarding the bus,” Stebbing added.

For details on the City of Merritt’s return home plan for Phases 3 and 4, go here.