Several downtown Cedar Rapids businesses without water

Water service to several downtown Cedar Rapids customers has been interrupted and probably won't be restored until after noon.

Crews replacing a valve at the Dows Building, 220 Second St. SE, this morning discovered the main valve controlling the flow to the building wouldn't close completely, utilities water distribution manager Bill Miller said. To replace that valve, which is buried beneath the street, crews cut service to the building about 8:30 a.m.

“Unfortunately, when we do have to do things like this we have to shut down the water,” Miller said.

The interruption also affects the adjoining Armstrong Building, and perhaps other neighbors.

Miller said the faulty valve should be replaced by 12:30 p.m., barring complications.

“Our guys are going to stay on the job until it's done,” he said.