DURHAM, N.C. -- The next stage of the investigation into what caused a deadly blast in downtown Durham is underway.

• This week, crews are excavating the site where a gas line ruptured two weeks ago.
• PSNC Energy says their experts will be at the site, if not all, then most of the week working on examinations of the land.
• NCDOT says the street is likely opening in the coming week, at the earliest, as more work and clean up are still needed.

This week, crews are excavating the site where a gas line ruptured two weeks ago. We also know asbestos has been a problem during clean up. The City of Durham says the asbestos isn't a public safety threat, and they removed it by watering it down and making sure the particles didn't get into the air, then putting it in containers and bringing it to the landfill.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Durham Continues to Recover After Massive Gas Explosion

While the road to recovery will be a lengthy process, first responders took the time to thank restaurants in the area for turning their patios into staging areas during a critical time.

PSNC Energy says their experts will be at the site, if not all, then most of the week working on examinations of the land.

NCDOT says the street is likely opening in the coming week, at the earliest, as more work and clean up are still needed.