A large water main break has occurred in Downtown Wilmington at the intersection of 11th and Orange Streets. Motorists and pedestrians should avoid this intersection. Orange Street is closed from 10th to 11th Streets and 11th Street is closed from West to Orange Streets.
A preliminary review by the City’s Public Works Department indicates the water main break has occurred along a 20-inch main that dates to 1875. This water main is what is referred to as a low-service line which means that likely, no customers will lose water service while repairs are being made. The Department of Public Works has not been able to control the flow of water yet through valves, so crews will soon begin to dig into the street and plug the main to stop the flow of water. This process could take several hours.
There are three major water mains in this intersection, so crews had to proceed cautiously to determine what occurred and the best method to repair it.
Again, motorists and pedestrians should avoid the area of 11th and Orange Streets.