Newport Beach crews have begun a 24‑hour drilling operation to seal an abandoned 1920s oil well that leaked methane and oil into a home on the Balboa Peninsula.
Emergency Remediation Begins
The Newport Beach Police Department posted on X on Saturday that “The state of CA & city of Newport Beach are beginning emergency remediation of an abandoned 1920s oil well near Marcus Ave & 36th St.” The same post added, “A specialized drill rig has arrived, with nighttime and 24/7 operations for the next 10 days.”
Impact on the Neighborhood
The drilling site is located at the intersection of Marcus Avenue and 36th Street, an area where residents had to evacuate back in October after a methane leak was discovered. The city declared a local emergency when the seeping methane gas was found, and the home at 3606 Marcus Ave. has been red‑tagged. Thick, sticky, dark black oil seeped inside that home up from under the walls and furniture.
Police added that nearby residents should expect to hear nighttime construction noise, a full street closure at Marcus and 36th Street, limited garage access near the site and no on‑street parking. Crews took over the neighborhood Sunday night and will continue working around the clock for the next 10 days, according to Newport Police.
Drilling Operation Details
The abandoned well lies approximately 800 feet beneath the neighborhood. The specialized drill rig will operate 24/7 for ten days to seal the well and prevent further methane and oil leakage. Residents are advised to stay away from the closed street and follow all posted safety instructions.
Key Takeaways
- 10‑day, 24/7 drilling operation underway at Marcus Ave & 36th St.
- The well is an abandoned 1920s oil well leaking methane and oil.
- Street closure, limited garage access, and no on‑street parking in the affected area.
The city’s emergency response aims to protect residents from potential fire hazards and ensure the safety of the neighborhood.
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