Utility extends expected timetable for downtown sinkhole repairs

Some downtown commuters are likely to face a longer commute than usual next week while crews work on a downtown sinkhole that is taking more time to repair than first expected.

Citizens Energy Group said Friday afternoon that it estimates the busy intersection of Ohio and Pennsylvania streets could be closed until Friday, July 13, due to the massive sinkhole that opened there Wednesday.

The utility originally thought repairs could be completed in one day, but later extended that estimate to “through the weekend.” Now that estimate has been extended.

Fixing the 17-foot-wide sinkhole, which was caused by the failure of a 24-inch, century-old brick sewer line that is 15 feet beneath the surface, is turning out to be more complex than anticipated.

“Citizens appreciates the patience of downtown commuters as we work as safely and quickly as possible to repair the sewer and open this busy intersection,” Tim Blagsvedt, director of Wastewater Collection for Citizens, said in a written statement.

About 40,000 vehicles typically travel through the intersection on a daily basis.

“Because the sewer failure is located below multiple other utility lines, which remain intact, Citizens must carefully excavate the area to ensure safety and continued utility service to the area,” the utility said.

Indianapolis police announced the following traffic restrictions during the repairs:

— Southbound vehicular traffic on Pennsylvania Street is restricted and is being diverted onto eastbound New York Street.

— Eastbound traffic on Ohio Street is restricted and is being diverted onto Meridian Street.

— Westbound traffic on Ohio Street is restricted and is being diverted onto northbound Delaware Street.