W Burnside traffic delays expected as crews repair water main break Thursday night

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Traffic delays are expected along West Burnside Street Thursday evening after a water main break was discovered near Barbara Walker Crossing, officials said.

The emergency repairs will begin at 7 p.m. on West Burnside between Northwest Barnes Road and the Barbara Walker Crossing pedestrian bridge, the Portland Water Bureau said.

The pedestrian bridge itself and area bus stops along the route will remain open. However, one westbound lane of West Burnside Street will be closed as the repairs take place.

"[C]rews will shift the lanes of traffic to ensure travel remains open in both directions," PWB said in a release. "The Water Bureau aims to have all lanes of traffic open before the morning commute, but we won’t know the extent of the repair until we have excavated and assessed the break."

If it's determined the repairs necessitate lane closures through Friday morning, PWB said they will send out a public update by 5 a.m.

Officials urge drivers to use caution as "traffic may suddenly slow or stop" during repairs.