WELLSBURG — Monday evening’s fire at the former Genpak factory affected traffic on the adjacent Charles Street and landline phone service to many residents, but that should change today, according to officials.

City Police Chief Richard Ferguson said the section of the street closed since the fire, was to be reopened Friday night, though it may be reduced to one lane to divert drivers from the building and fallen debris.

Andy Malinoski, spokesman for Frontier Communications, said phone service to affected customers should be restored by later today. He said crews have been working in long shifts to repair the line damaged by the fire.

Fourth Ward Councilman Charlie Harris had expressed concern about the fallen line’s impact on lines and poles north and south of the factory. Malinoski said lines and poles in the area will be inspected and repairs made if needed.

City officials have delayed demolishing the remaining structure until an engineer recommends how best to proceed. They have urged residents not to step into the taped off area for any reason.