DURHAM, N.C. — City leaders are hoping Gov. Roy Cooper will declare an emergency in the wake of last week's gas explosion.

The blast occurred Wednesday morning on North Duke Street after a worker severed a gas line. The blast injured more than two dozen people and killed one. Nearby businesses are closed after crews condemned some buildings for being unsafe with busted out windows and other damage.

An emergency declaration would allow impacted businesses to get federal aid.

“We know that a small business loan is going to help them. Help take care of employees who have not been able to work. Help them pay their bills,” says Emergency Management Director James Groves.

City officials hope to hear back from the governor's office by the end of the week.