Local
Excavator strike triggers gas leak and temporary Turnpike closure in Hollywood
A damaged natural gas main near North 62nd Avenue and Arthur Street forced the closure of northbound Florida’s Turnpike for several hours Friday. Nearby residents, including people at an elder-care facility, were evacuated as a precaution.
An excavator struck a major natural gas line in Hollywood shortly before 11 a.m. Friday, prompting emergency crews to close northbound Florida’s Turnpike and evacuate some nearby residents, officials said.
The strike occurred near North 62nd Avenue and Arthur Street. The northbound Turnpike was shut between Hollywood Boulevard and Griffin Road while crews responded to the leak. The road reopened a few hours later, officials said.
Some residents in the area, including people at an elder-care facility, were evacuated as a precaution. Officials said the damaged line runs from South Florida to Texas. The gas provider was expected to arrive to begin repairs.
No further details about the damage or any injuries were immediately available.