A significant water main break in Downtown Pittsburgh has necessitated the closure of several government offices, including the Allegheny County Courthouse, the Family Law Center, the City-County Building, and the Manor Building. As a result of the incident, court proceedings in the Criminal, Family, and Civil Divisions of the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County were suspended for the day. Following the break on Ross Street at the intersection of Forbes Avenue, crews were dispatched to make necessary repairs. When water was turned back on following a maintenance shut-off Thursday night, a 16-inch valve began leaking, as reported by WPXI.
With the Allegheny County Sheriff's Office closed, including operations related to real estate, civil process, and the Pennsylvania License to Carry a Firearm permit office, were affected by the sudden closure. According to WTAE, Orphans’ Court, Pittsburgh Municipal Court, and all Magisterial District Courts in Allegheny County will maintain operations despite the disruptions encountered by the other court divisions.
Those seeking Emergency Protection from Abuse Orders are directed to the Arraignment Court at 660 First Avenue, which remains operational for such critical needs. This information is particularly important for individuals in vulnerable situations who require immediate legal intervention.
The timeframe for water service restoration was estimated between 3 and 4 p.m. on the same day as the break.
