Family festival held for Porter Ranch residents impacted by gas leak

PORTER RANCH, LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- A free family festival was held in Porter Ranch on Saturday to try and help lift the spirits of those who underwent months of uncertainty due to the gas leak at the Aliso Canyon gas storage facility.

Councilman Mitch Englander said he organized the family festival as a welcome-home party for the residents who stayed behind, and the tens of thousands of residents who relocated amid the leak and the clean-up.

"Today is a day to celebrate...The two schools that were closed down and relocated - they're out and they're going to be back home as well - so we wanted to welcome everybody home with a family-fun festival..." Englander said.

Families enjoyed attractions such as live music, rock climbing, arts and crafts and a petting zoo.

The festival began at about 4 p.m. at Holleigh Bernson Memorial Park and was expected to end at 8 p.m.

The Aliso Canyon facility came under fire after a months-long gas leak that displaced hundreds of residents. Many said the fumes caused them to fall ill and suffer from headaches and nosebleeds.

Though some residents are not back in their homes, many said the joint celebration is good for the community.

"To be back in your own bed, in your own environment, it's soothing and comforting..." said Porter Ranch resident John Franz.