Stormwater pipe failure causes sinkhole and road closure in downtown Macon

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – A failed stormwater pipe has caused a sinkhole near the intersection of First Street and Pine Street in downtown Macon, according to the Macon Water Authority.

In a news release, MWA officials said an old terracotta storm pipe broke on the northwest side of the intersection, allowing rainwater to erode the surrounding soil. The erosion caused the ground to shift and the roadway to sink.

The MWA Stormwater Department has contacted a local contractor to address the emergency.

As a result, the southbound lane and turning lane of Pine Street are closed until further notice. Traffic is being redirected around the affected area.

A message board reading “Emergency and Parking Deck Traffic Only” will be placed at the intersection of Pine Street and New Street, and a flagman will be on-site to manage traffic for emergency vehicles as needed.

MWA officials said the repair will involve removing the damaged 12-inch terracotta pipe and replacing it with a Georgia Department of Transportation-approved 15-inch HDPE pipe. Temporary signage and metal plates have been installed until construction begins.