Charles Street Remains Closed As Crews Work To Repair Water Main
BALTIMORE (WJZ) — For the third day in a row, Charles Street in North Baltimore remains closed, as crews work to fix a broken water main.
Monique Griego has the latest on when things may be completed.
It took two days just to turn the water off. So Friday crews were finally able to start digging.
Wednesday, a massive water main break in North Baltimore turned Charles Street into a rushing river--with flooding so fast and intense, it buckled the pavement. It took workers two days to shut off the flow of water.
"This is an old water system. Baltimore is an old town and things like that will occur," said Lewis Ward.
Finally on dry land, crews started digging.
"It is going to be a big job, yes," said Rudy Chow, Bureau of Water and Waste-water.
The pipes they need to fix are 17-feet below ground. And until that's done, Charles Street between North and 21st street remains closed.
"It's just the traffic's kind of crazy. That's about it," said Kiven Ray.
"Our plan is to get this done as quickly as possible knowing that this is a major throughway for motorists as well as an inconvenience for residents here," Chow said.
While residents don't seem to mind the construction too much, nearby businesses say they're taking a hit.
"My customers cannot reach here," said Kiwon Shin.
Shin's restaurant is on 20th Street--right next to the big hole. He is expecting a slow few weeks.
"They will probably take a long time I think and it will definitely affect my business," he said.
Crews are working day and night to fix the lines, but the Dept. of Public Works says it could still take weeks to complete. Neighbors can't help but hope for a faster fix.
"Definitely. So everything can get back to normal around here," said Ray.
Besides Charles Street, there are still a few other street closures because they have to bring in big equipment for the repairs.
One thing that is working towards their advantage is the good weather. They say it just makes this work a lot easier, and helps things move along faster.
Everyone near the water main break has water service. They may just be dealing with low water pressure.
