Large Water Main Break Closes West Broad Street Near Innsbrook

Henrico Police were called to West Broad Street at Old Sadler Road around 5:40 a.m. Saturday morning with a report of standing water in the roadway. Upon further investigation, authorities determined there was a widespread water main break beneath the roadway. Lieutenant Hank Smith with Henrico Police said the road was closed down to one westbound […]

November 6, 2010; 10:52 AM • by Trevor Dickerson

Henrico Police were called to West Broad Street at Old Sadler Road around 5:40 a.m. Saturday morning with a report of standing water in the roadway. Upon further investigation, authorities determined there was a widespread water main break beneath the roadway.

Lieutenant Hank Smith with Henrico Police said the road was closed down to one westbound lane until the problem worsened.

“The road began to buckle, so the decision was made to go ahead and close all westbound lanes,” Lt. Smith said.

Smith says the underground support structure of the roadway may have been damaged by the free-flowing water underground, likely causing the pavement to fracture.

Traffic is being rerouted onto Dominion Boulevard next to the Innsbrook Shoppes.

Cox Road south to Three Chopt westbound can be used as an alternate.

Water remained flowing at press time, pending shutoff of the correct water valve. Lt. Smith says it may be Sunday before West Broad Street is reopened to traffic.

No word on whether water service will be affected at nearby homes and businesses once the valve is shut off.

November 6, 2010 10:52 AM 0