A block of Prospect Avenue has developed a sinkhole and will remain closed to traffic until repairs are completed.

A portion of Prospect Avenue will remain closed to traffic due to a roadway failure. Photo courtesy of John Phillips

By Ronni Newton

The Town of West Hartford issued an advisory on Monday morning indicating closure of a stretch of Prospect Avenue while crews were assessing a “significant roadway failure,” and while the cause of the failure has now been determined, traffic is likely to be impacted for the next several days.

Public Works Director John Phillips told We-Ha.com that a storm water line below the surface of the roadway that has developed a sinkhole is in need of repair.

“The pipe we need to repair is more than 10 feet down. With additional hazards such as gas lines and sanitary lines, we must work slow to be safe,” Phillips said. Due to the weather crews were unable to begin the repair process on Monday, he said, and the work is likely to continue throughout the day on Wednesday, perhaps into Thursday.

A portion of Prospect Avenue will remain closed to traffic due to a roadway failure. Photo courtesy of John Phillips

Both northbound lanes of the 95-105 block of Prospect Avenue – between Westphal Street and Caya Avenue – are closed to traffic. According to the town, northbound traffic is being detoured onto Merrill Street in Hartford. Detour signs are in place.

Apple maps. Screenshot

One southbound lane remained open on Monday morning, but delays were expected and motorists were urged to avoid the area.

“Thank you for your patience and cooperation as we work to protect public safety,” the town said in an announcement on Monday.

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