Gas Leak Forces Closure of I-94 in Downtown Minneapolis

MINNEAPOLIS -- Authorities have closed Interstate 94 at the Lowry Hill Tunnel in downtown Minneapolis due to a broken gas main.

CenterPoint Energy says a contractor hit a 16-inch gas line in the area of Hennepin Avenue, Lyndale Avenue and I-94 around 12:30 p.m. Thursday.

I-94 was closed in both directions at the tunnel, and traffic was diverted onto city streets.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation estimated the shutdown would last at least an hour.

The Walker Art Center and St. Mark's Episcopal Cathedral were evacuated due to the break, and motorists described a heavy smell of gas in the tunnel.