A 24-inch transmission water main broke in downtown Springfield Thursday afternoon at 5th and Monroe Streets. The break resulted in flooding in the streets and in nearby buildings.
According to City Water, Light and Power, crews closed the valves, resulting in a loss of water service to those in the area. Power was also turned off.
Monroe Street is closed between 4th and 5th Streets due to road damage. Authorities say it will remain closed until further notice.
City Water, Light and Power crews worked overnight and were on the scene Friday morning. The utility said the break is approximately 12 feet long, and the main is located deep underground. "We are working to secure a larger excavator from a contractor to assist with the repair," CWLP said.
"At this time, we still do not have an estimated completion time. Based on what we’re seeing, it appears we will need to replace approximately 20 feet of 24-inch pipe."
The city is sending building and electrical inspectors to the area businesses to assess safety and restoration efforts. Several remained without power as of Friday morning. They include customers on the south side of Monroe to the north of Capitol Avenue and along 3rd, 4th and 5th Streets on the same block.
A new business, The Bus Stop at the corner of 5th and Monroe, was forced to postpone its grand opening.
"We are heart broken but we’ll be back," the business posted on social media.
Other nearby businesses, including Dumb Records and Joe Gallina's Pizza, also saw water inside.
"If you need to access a building or business in this area, you will need to do so on foot. Please check directly with the business or building to confirm whether it is open before arriving," an official statement read.
