Major Water Main Break Causes Sinkhole, Disrupting Local Businesses on University Avenue

A sinkhole appeared on University Avenue in Little Rock around 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, caused by a broken 12-inch AC water main. This incident left twenty-eight customers, mostly local businesses, without water.

Central Arkansas Water responded promptly. A crew was dispatched to fix the pipe and patch the road. Meanwhile, the Little Rock Police Department blocked southbound traffic on University Avenue to ensure safety.

Heide Harrell, from Central Arkansas Water, explained that the sinkhole was not due to recent rain but rather to aging infrastructure. “We have old systems throughout Little Rock, and we’re working hard to upgrade and repair them,” she said. Although the water main had been slated for replacement, it failed sooner than expected.

Businesses felt the impact immediately. Marvin Cawthon, owner of 5-Star Cuts Barbershop, emphasized the importance of water for sanitation. “It’s a critical part of what we do,” he noted.

By 2:00 P.M., the repairs were completed, restoring service to all affected customers. Celise Cawthon, of Black Door Studio, appreciated the quick response. She had been worried about the safety of her clients as the rush hour approached and traffic increased. “With a busy highway like University, any issues can quickly lead to congestion,” she remarked.

This event highlights broader concerns about infrastructure in cities. According to a recent report by the American Society of Civil Engineers, many U.S. cities struggle with aging pipes and other essential systems, leading to frequent disruptions. Communities are encouraged to advocate for better maintenance and upgrades.

Local residents and business owners took to social media to share their experiences, showing both relief and frustration. Many emphasized the need for ongoing improvements in the city’s infrastructure to prevent similar incidents in the future.

In summary, while the quick response helped minimize disruptions, this sinkhole serves as a reminder of the challenges cities face with aging infrastructure and the need for investment in public works.



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