Portion of Riverside Drive to Remain Closed ‘Several More Days’ Due to Sinkhole
A portion of Riverside Drive in Evansville will remain closed for the time being.
A Portion of Riverside Drive Closed Due to Sinkhole
Earlier this week, a portion of Riverside Drive in Downtown Evansville was closed after a dip began to form in the roadway, and it was later determined that a sinkhole had begun to form.
Sinkhole Expanded and Watermain Break Was Discovered
In the overnight hours Monday, the sinkhole expanded in size.Upon further inspection, Evansville Water and Sewer Utility revealed that a watermain had ruptured underneath the road.
Repairs Began on the Waterline
Repair work began this week on the waterline, and has since been completed, according to a post made to Facebook by Evansville Water and Sewer Utility. However, they say the roadway will remain closed for a few more days.
Riverside Drive to Stay Closed 'Several More Days'
The reason for the continued closure is that a large, brick storm sewer located much further down may be the real cause of the sinkhole that formed.
Damages Must Be Assessed and Repairs Must Be Made
Evansville Water and Sewer Utility says in their post that once crews are able to assess the damage, and make the repairs, the roadway will be reopened. Unfortunately, there is no timeline for the reopening of Riverside Drive beyong "at least several more days."
The sinkhole that formed earlier this week was caused by issue with a large brick storm sewer located 25 feet below the road surface. Once crews are able to assess the sewer, they can determine the extent of the damage and make repairs.
Riverside Closed Westbound Between Cherry and Chestnut Streets
Until the sewer drain and the roadway can be repaired, Riverside Drive will remain closed to westbound traffic between Cherry and Chestnut Streets. In the interem, traffic will be diverted up Cherry to 2nd Street.
[Source: Evansville Water and Sewer Utility via Facebook]
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Gallery Credit: Kat Mykals