Water Main Repair on NW 23rd Street Extended After Unforeseen Complication

What was expected to be an overnight repair job on Northwest 23rd Street has stretched into a multi-day project after crews encountered unexpected issues underground.

OKC Utilities Line Maintenance crews began repairing an -inch water main west of North Pennsylvania Avenue on Wednesday evening at 8 p.m. The work was initially scheduled during lower traffic hours to minimize disruption, with an expected completion time of 6 a.m. Thursday.

However, officials report they now have to reroute around 60 feet of pipe due to an unforeseen complication.

Expanded Lane Closures

The additional work has forced crews to expand the affected area. All westbound lanes and two eastbound lanes of Northwest 23rd Street are now closed from North Virginia Avenue to Pennsylvania Avenue. One eastbound lane remains open, but vehicles will not be able to turn north from 23rd Street onto Pennsylvania Avenue.

Barricades and detour signs remain in place. Drivers are encouraged to seek alternate routes.

Updated Timeline

Crews anticipate the repair to finish around 10 a.m. on Saturday. Lane closures will remain in place until repairs are completed, and officials note additional road repairs may be needed afterward.

Water Service Update

Good news for nearby businesses: water service has been restored for customers in the Penn Crossing shopping center. Residential customers in the surrounding area have not been affected.

The city appreciates residents’ patience as crews work to complete this essential infrastructure repair.