Gas Line Rupture Prompts Traffic Detours At I-35, Between William Cannon And Stassney: Austin Police

UPDATE: The roadway has been re-opened after the gas line was repaired. More information below:

Austin, TX -- Motorists were being urged on Tuesday to avoid the area along Interstate 35 between William Cannon and Stassney after utility workers detected a damaged gas line.

By about 4:15 p.m., crews with Texas Gas Service had contained the rupture, prompting the re-opening of the stretch of road.

The utility's spokeswoman, Christy Penders, categorized the rupture not as a "gas leak" as was suggested, but more of a "hit line." Her more precise terminology indicates a contractor working in the area had inadvertently struck the natural gas line there. The line was quickly contained just after 4 p.m., she added.

Utility crews then were assigned to the scene to make needed repairs, and will remain there for a few more hours to monitor and make additional repairs as needed, she said.

But she stressed the area was safe, and there was no gas leaking. She acknowledged traffic backups had occurred initially but said traffic was now moving again. She still urged motorists to watch out for utility crews, and be aware of unrelated construction signs on the sides of the roadway.

Police estimate the repair work would take up to five hours. The affected area is on the I-35 service road between the aforementioned streets, they noted.

Police previously suggested motorists use Helms Road instead, but Penders said there is no longer a need for drivers to take detours given the fixed line.

"The area is safe, and everyone can do what they need to do," she told Patch on the telephone.