Chattanooga Faces Emergency Water Main Breaks and Closures

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Construction crews repairing water main breaks in Chattanooga.

News Summary

Chattanooga is currently dealing with multiple water main breaks leading to emergency road closures across the city. The Chattanooga Department of Transportation is actively repairing leaks, especially significant breaks at key intersections. Residents are advised to navigate detours and report any leaks they encounter. While the repairs are underway, local authorities are working to keep traffic safe and flowing as the city copes with the aftermath of recent cold weather patterns.

Chattanooga Grapples with Water Main Breaks and Emergency Road Closures

Chattanooga is currently facing some challenges due to multiple water main breaks that have created emergency road closures across the city. This situation has unfolded, particularly on a chilly Thursday, when residents were hit with the unexpected fallout from a cold snap. While the frigid weather might be a surprise, the result has left many drivers and pedestrians navigating a maze of detours and repairs.

Ongoing Repairs in Full Swing

The Chattanooga Department of Transportation (CDOT) is on the front lines, working diligently to repair the leaks and mitigate the disruptions. One of the most significant breaks was reported at the intersection of King Street and E ML King Boulevard. This particular leak was troubling enough to require extended road closures that are currently expected to last through Saturday. Authorities have identified that the break is located right in the heart of the intersection, making repairs a top priority.

Additional Breaks Causing Headaches

As if that weren’t enough, another substantial leak has been spotted on Woodhill Drive. Water is reportedly gushing down Shady Circle and is affecting all lanes on Hixson Pike. Crews from the Chattanooga Public Works department have been proactive, applying salt to Hixson Pike and Shady Circle to prevent further freezing. They are making every effort to keep the roadways safe for those who must travel through the area.

Traffic Adjustments in Place

For those using Woodhill Circle, it’s important to note that it has been closed to through traffic at 1320 Woodhill Drive while repairs are underway. Meanwhile, drivers are advised to use caution when driving on Hixson Pike and Shady Circle to navigate safely around construction and potential hazards.

Smaller Leaks Detected

Barton Avenue, between McFarland Avenue and Hixson Pike. These leaks seem to be related to service lines, as opposed to the main pipes, and are known to the teams at Tennessee American Water and the City of Chattanooga Public Works. While these smaller issues are being addressed, there might be some temporary changes to traffic flow, with the northbound lane potentially shifting into the center turn lane.

How Residents Can Help

Residents are encouraged to stay vigilant and can play an active role by reporting any water leaks they encounter, both in Chattanooga and its outskirts. To do so, Tennessee American Water has set up a 24/7 emergency line at 1-866-736-6420. This initiative enables residents to communicate any issues they see, ensuring that no leak goes unnoticed.