A section of East Broad Street in Statesville was closed Monday following a gas line break that prompted evacuations and a large emergency response. Crews from Enbridge and the Statesville Fire Department worked throughout the day to stop the leak, secure the area, and begin repairs.
The incident led to the closure of East Broad Street from Tradd Street to Salisbury Road, as well as portions of North and South Green Street. Part of Davie Avenue was also closed for several hours. Officials urged drivers and pedestrians to avoid the area due to a strong smell of natural gas and ongoing safety concerns.
As of 1:40 p.m., Enbridge reported that the gas flow had been significantly reduced, though odors were still noticeable. Crews continued working on repairs, and closures remained in place on East Broad Street and both directions of Green Street. Davie Avenue began reopening in the afternoon as conditions improved.
By 5:02 p.m., authorities said the evacuation order remained in place for residents and businesses along East Broad Street and North Green Street. Officials advised residents not to return home without assistance from firefighters, who would check homes for gas before allowing entry.
Later in the evening, officials announced that the gas had been shut off at the break and residents were being allowed to return to their homes. Repair work was expected to continue for several more hours, and East Broad Street between Tradd Street and Elm Street, as well as the intersection at North and South Green Streets, remained closed.
The City of Statesville and Enbridge are asking residents and motorists to continue using caution in the area until repairs are complete and the roadway is fully reopened.
