San Antonio residents traveling on Broadway were forced to detour Wednesday morning after a major water main break damaged the roadway. A San Antonio Water System (SAWS) spokesperson confirmed that a 24‑inch cast‑iron pipe ruptured beneath the underpass between Roy Smith Street and Casa Blanca Avenue, necessitating a “complete closure of Broadway” until the damage can be repaired.
Impact on drivers and commuters
Motorists were advised to seek alternate routes while crews work to replace the broken pipe and restore the road surface. The closure is expected to last several hours, though SAWS did not provide a precise reopening time. Drivers were encouraged to use nearby thoroughfares such as Main Avenue, San Pedro Avenue, and the I‑35 frontage roads to avoid congestion.
SAWS response and safety measures
SAWS emphasized that the water main break does not affect residential water service; no customers are without water. The agency’s priority is to secure the pipe, prevent further roadway damage, and ensure public safety. “Our crews are on site and working around the clock to fix the main and reopen Broadway as quickly as possible,” the spokesperson said.
Why water main breaks happen
Older cast‑iron mains, many of which date back several decades, are prone to corrosion and stress from shifting soil. When a pipe fails, the resulting water pressure can erode the surrounding pavement, creating hazardous conditions for drivers. SAWS has a long‑term replacement program aimed at upgrading aging infrastructure, but unexpected failures like this one still occur.
What residents can do
Residents who rely on Broadway for daily commutes should plan ahead and allow extra travel time. Checking real‑time traffic updates on the City of San Antonio’s website or local radio stations can help motorists choose the best detour. If you notice any water leaks or unusual pavement conditions, report them to SAWS at 210‑555‑1234 or through the agency’s online portal.
Looking ahead
SAWS will monitor the repaired section closely to ensure the new pipe functions correctly and that the roadway remains safe. The agency also reminded the public that regular maintenance and timely reporting of infrastructure issues are essential to prevent future disruptions. As the city continues to grow, maintaining reliable water and transportation systems remains a top priority for both SAWS and local government officials.
KSAT will update this story when Broadway reopens and provide any additional information about the repair timeline.
Original reporting: San Antonio, TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
