NEW CONCORDIA — Transportation officials closed the eastbound Grand Avenue exit Saturday after a sinkhole opened beneath part of the ramp and swallowed several feet of pavement.
No vehicles fell into the hole, though one driver reported losing a hubcap while braking.
“I’ve taken that exit every morning for nine years,” commuter Denise Harper said. “Today my GPS sent me somewhere I’ve never seen before. Apparently we have a botanical garden.”
The Department of Transportation said underground water damage may have weakened the roadway. Engineers are inspecting the surrounding pavement before repairs begin.
Drivers should expect detours through Monday.
Officials have not provided a repair estimate, which in New Concordia transportation language traditionally means motorists should begin emotionally preparing for autumn.