Gas leak partially closes Route 31 in Elgin

Route 31 is closed to through traffic in Elgin between Schiller Street and Big Timber Road because of a gas leak, according to police.

Lt. Glenn Theriault said a water main break slowed down traffic on Route 31 at about 9 a.m. today, but it is a gas main break that crews are dealing with this afternoon in the 900 block of North State Street.

“Given the wind they’re able to keep it open to local traffic, because the wind dissipates the gas,” Theriault said.

Nicor Gas representatives are on the scene, as are Elgin responders.

Illinois Department of Transportation crews were doing work in the area this morning but Theriault did not know what exactly caused the breaks.

Route 31 should be reopened well before the start of the evening rush hour, he said.