LINCOLN PARK — North Avenue was closed on both sides of the Chicago River for most of the day Thursday after a gas main leak was detected, but People's Gas said repairs were complete and that it reopened by the evening
North Avenue's lanes had already been reduced this week as People's Gas worked to replace the gas main at Kingsbury Street. That work was expected to take until Nov. 8, with reduced access to Kingsbury through next month.
But People's Gas reported Thursday that the exact location of the leak was 1232 W. North Ave., west of the river near Magnolia Avenue.
Ald. Brian Hopkins (2nd) reported the closure in a midday newsletter to constituents, adding, "Emergency work is currently underway."
Hopkins indicated that North Avenue was closed between Sheffield and Throop Street west of the river.
"North Avenue is closed in the affected areas," Hopkins said, "and [drivers are] advised to seek alternative routes until the repair work can be completed. Please avoid the area if possible."
People's Gas spokeswoman Luz Bottecchia said midafternoon Thursday that repairs were complete, and that after cleanup North Avenue was expected to reopen by 5 p.m.
Hopkins' office said Thursday afternoon that initial repair work was expected to be completed soon, and Ald. Michele Smith (43rd) confirmed that in an email to her constituents that also reported the site of the leak.
