Loop Gas-Line Explosion Blocks Traffic, Slows CTA Tuesday Afternoon

By Stephen Gossett in News on Jun 14, 2016 8:19PM

A gas line explosion on Tuesday in the Loop caused parts of downtown to be restricted from pedestrian and vehicular traffic, while also bringing upon myriad transit headaches. At roughly 12:40 p.m., construction crews hit an old, unused line at State and Madison, according to the Chicago Fire Department.

The CFD reported no injuries.

The scene was designated a Level Two Haz-Mat situation, according to the Chicago Police Department. As a result, street closures were in effect on State from Lake south to Adams, and Madison from Michigan Ave west to Dearborn Street. Red Line trains were also rerouted to the elevated tracks between Fullerton and Cermak-Chinatown, and riders may continue to see residual delays along that service, according to the Chicago Transit Authority.

The CTA also reports reroutes of eight southbound bus lines: the 6, 10, 29, 36, 62, 146, 147 and 151. As of 3:00 p.m. State Street was closed between Lake and Washington streets, and Randolph Street was closed between Dearborn Street and Wabash Avenue.

CFD still at the Level 2 Haz Mat. State St closed from Lake to Washington. Randolph closed from Dearborn to Wabash.

— Chicago Fire Media (@CFDMedia) June 14, 2016