NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Residents of a public housing complex have been forced out of their homes for the second time in a week, due to a power outage.
Buses shuttled residents of the Parthenon Towers to David Lipscomb University overnight, where a temporary shelter has been set up in Allen Arena.
The Red Cross has provided shelter for approximately 172 residents, and said they are prepared to house them for three or four days. They also have Red Cross volunteer nurses on hand to help as needed.
The first incident, a kitchen fire, triggered the sprinklers and caused multiple power outages. Just as officials were fixing that problem, another round of electrical problems started. Seven floors in the building were left with no power.
"We heard a big bang, and then the building shook," said one resident.
No one was hurt during the evacuations, but officials were cautious because many people in the building are disabled.
"We have a lot of people who aren't very mobile," said Mark Drury, the Director of Communications for MDHA. "So we want to be really careful how we handle the situation."
Residents said they are frustrated, and want the situation fixed.
"I don't think it is safe," said one resident." This old building needs to be demolished."
"A new emergency plan needs to be in effect for this building," said another.
Metro Fire Officials and the MDHA continue to investigate the situation.
The Red Cross has set up extra cots in what they're calling the overflow room. It will likely be used as an eating area once residents wake up.
Approximately 40 pets have also been taken to nearby shelters until residents are allowed back into their homes.
Another 100 residents made plans to stay elsewhere.
The Parthenon Towers is a metro government-run apartment housing complex for seniors and disabled citizens.
