Long-Term Shutdown To Impact Cranford After Officials Respond To Manhole Fire: See Details

CRANFORD, NJ — Officials are working the scene of a manhole fire in the area of North Avenue on Thursday, the Cranford Fire Department said.

North Avenue is closed from Lincoln Avenue to North Union Avenue in both directions.

At around 8:50 a.m., Cranford Police and Fire officials responded to a report of flames leaving a manhole.

The fire was coming from an underground electrical vault.

North Avenue was then closed out of an abundance of caution while a detour plan was constructed with the New Jersey Department of Transportation.

Workers with utility provider PSE&G are on scene with members of the Fire Department assessing the situation.

Officials told residents to avoid the area.

While one lane may open to traffic on Thursday, there will be a long-term shutdown for repairs, Mayor Kathleen Miller Prunty said.

As of 11 a.m. on Thursday, drivers can anticipate detours and disruption in the area for around 36 hours, Miller Prunty added.

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