Boston Water Main Break Repaired, Columbus Avenue Reopens

Boston, MA – Repair work on a water main break that disrupted traffic and briefly left one building without water was completed Thursday, officials announced. The break, which occurred Tuesday near the Roxbury and Jamaica Plain neighborhoods at the intersection of Columbus Avenue, Centre Street, and Richie Street, caused significant water flow into the streets.

Initial Assessment and Repairs

Initially, Boston Water and Sewer Commission (BWSC) officials believed the issue stemmed from a 36-inch-wide transmission main. However, Boston Water and Sewer Chief Engineer John Sullivan determined the rupture occurred in a 12-inch main that was being supplied by the larger 36-inch line. The proximity of the two mains “complicated matters in many ways,” according to Stephen Mulloney of the BWSC.

Restoration and Traffic Updates

As of Thursday morning, all mains had been repaired and reactivated. Crews were backfilling and patching the affected area, with a temporary paving completed today and further permanent paving scheduled after midnight. Water service has been fully restored to the one building that experienced a loss of water.

Traffic on Columbus Avenue had been reduced to one lane in each direction during the repairs. The BWSC announced via Twitter (@BOSTON_WATER) that Columbus Avenue has now been fully reopened in both directions.

Challenges During the Repair

The repair efforts were initially hampered by built-up trash on the streets, which clogged nearby drains and prevented effective water drainage. Water seepage into nearby buildings prompted residents to use sandbags to prevent flooding.

Looking Ahead

Officials anticipate minimal traffic disruption during the evening rush hour. The BWSC thanked the public for their patience and acknowledged the work of the repair crews.