Gas line break causes traffic headaches, closes 2 schools

CHERRY HILLS VILLAGE - Xcel Energy crews worked overnight trying to repair a gas line accidently ruptured by a construction worker, which has closed Quincy Avenue and two schools.

The South Metro Fire Department says a construction crew working at Quincy Avenue and Vista Road struck the gas line around 3:01 p.m. Monday.

Quincy Avenue is closed between University and Colorado Boulevards as Xcel Energy crews work to repair the damage to the gas line. The road closure forced school officials at Kent Denver and Cherry Hills Village Elementary to close school on Tuesday.

Joe Fuentes, a spokesman with Xcel Energy says crews had hoped to fix the problem overnight, but were unable to finish the repairs. He now expects work to be completed around Noon on Tuesday.

Fuentes says residents in the area may smell a natural gas odor in the air, until repairs are completed.