For More Information Contact:
Joe Harwood, 541-543-5788
Eugene Water & Electric Board

Sept. 15, 2011

Water main break snarls Valley River traffic

A Eugene Water & Electric Board water main break beneath the Delta Highway southbound off-ramp to Valley River Center has forced repair crews to close two of the three lanes of the off-ramp as it approaches the intersection of Valley River Way and Valley River Drive.

The pipe, an 8-inch cast iron main, broke Thursday afternoon. The cause is unclear at this time. Crews have isolated the break and have started to excavate the asphalt and soil around the broken pipe.

Although the traffic signal at the intersection is still in operation, EWEB flaggers are assisting drivers. Motorists should avoid the southbound Delta Highway off-ramp to Valley River Center and use alternate routes. Drivers approaching the Valley River Center area on Delta Highway should expect heavy congestion during the evening commute.

No customers or fire hydrants in the area are without water service. EWEB crews on site estimate repairs could take up to eight hours.