A significant water main break has prompted the shutdown of northbound lanes on a portion of 66th Street North in St. Petersburg, causing disruptions and adjustments for local traffic. This incident occurred earlier today between Tyrone Boulevard North, also known as US-19 Alt, and 26th Avenue North. Authorities are advising drivers to seek alternative routes as the northbound stretch will likely remain closed through at least tomorrow, according to a WFLA report.
Crews are currently on the scene working to quickly to fix the break, an 8-inch diameter water pipe, which has spilled quantities of water and left a sizable hole in the roadway. "Due to the size of water pipe break, there will be a lot of roadway restoration after the pipe is repaired," St. Petersburg police announced in a release captured by WTSP. This substantial damage indicates that repairs may extend the road closure beyond the immediate water main repair efforts.
Fortunately, the southbound lanes of 66th Street North remain open, and access to essential services such as Tyrone Middle School on 26th Avenue North is not impeded. "The entrance to the school on 26th Avenue North is not blocked. Traffic control is on site to provide direction," was assured in a statement made by the city and reported by Bay News 9.
While the break has caused considerable inconvenience, city officials confirmed that there have been no water service interruptions to area customers as a result of the incident. Residents and commuters are nonetheless encouraged to account for additional travel time and to consider alternate commutes until the situation fully resolves. The city's latest communications also stated, "The exact time for northbound lanes of 66th St. N to reopen is yet to be determined," highlighting the uncertainty surrounding this infrastructure setback, according to WTSP.
