Lane closures continue after water main break

Partial lane closures continue today as county crews continue to repair the damage caused by yesterday's water main break along Bee Ridge Road between McIntosh Road and Honore Avenue. 

The 12-inch pipe experienced a 12-foot break in the early afternoon yesterday, resulting in damage to the roadway in addition to a loss of water service to about 20 customers, most of which were businesses. Water service was restored this morning around midnight, but a precautionary boil warning has been issued for the affected businesses. 

Though several organizations and businesses have complained of inconsistent water service due to construction along the road, yesterday's break was unrelated to Florida Department of Transportation's ongoing project to resurface Bee Ridge Road. According to Sarasota County staff, the break was naturally occurring and likely due to the age of the pipe. 

County staff expects all lanes to reopen later this afternoon.