Williams Boulevard reopens after gas leak

UPDATE: Williams Boulevard has reopened after construction crews hit a gas line earlier today.

Police closed down the street, and a nearby Taco Bell was evacuated, after the line was struck around 10:10 a.m. at the intersection of Williams Boulevard and Trent Street SW.

Fire Department spokesman Greg Buelow said workers with Price Industrial were digging under the street to install fiberoptic cable when they punctured a 4-inch gas line.

Gas readings were taken at nearby businesses and determined to be safe, Buelow said. Taco Bell at 3045 Williams Blvd. SW, was the only one to be evacuated.

Crews from MidAmerican Energy pinched off the line just before 12:30 p.m. today, allowing both Williams Boulevard and Taco Bell to reopen.

This is at least the ninth time a gas line has been cut in Cedar Rapids since March.

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