Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - In the hours following a major water main break at the intersection of Hertel Avenue and Military Road, cleanup efforts got underway to make necessary repairs Thursday morning in North Buffalo.
City of Buffalo crews - including the Department of Public Works, Buffalo Water Authority, Buffalo Sewer Authority and Department of Permit and Inspection - were all at the scene Thursday morning to further assess the damage and begin recovery efforts after the water main break caused significant flooding, roadway damage, and the temporary displacement of residents.
The city was able to confirmed damage to portions of the Jasper Parrish apartment complex, with officials further inspecting affected units. They must clear homes for habitability before residents are allowed to return.
City crews also continue to assess roadway conditions, utilities, and surrounding infrastructure. National Grid has informed the city a substation transmission cable was damaged.
The Buffalo Fire Department assisted approximately eight individuals who were trapped in vehicles due to flooding in the area. No injuries were reported, and no individuals were transported to the hospital. All individuals were safely removed from their vehicles and released on scene.
Approximately 26 residents were assisted out of the nearby neighborhood and the Jasper Parrish complex as a precaution due to flooding and access issues. Residents were transported to temporary warming shelters, including a city bus, a nearby school, and a nearby church. Of those displaced, five individuals required emergency housing assistance.
Several road closures are in effect, as crews continue response and repair efforts.
On Military Road, the roadway is closed to local traffic only from Chandler Street to Hinman Avenue, with no access between Chandler Street and Gladstone Street.
On Hertel Avenue, the roadway is closed to local traffic only from Elmwood Avenue to Tonawanda Street, with no access between Jasper Parrish Boulevard and Short Street.
Motorists are advised to avoid the area and follow posted detours. Buffalo Police are assisting with traffic control.
There is no timetable for when the intersection and the roadways will be allowed to re-open for vehicular traffic.
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