SW Simpson Avenue reopens after Bend road construction crew hits natural gas line

(Update: Adding video, road reopens)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- A road construction crew struck a four-inch gas line in southwest Bend Monday afternoon, prompting a closure of Simpson Avenue, fire officials said.

Simpson Avenue was closed between 15th and 17th avenues due to the gas line break, reported around 2:45 p.m., Bend Fire Battalion Cjhief Trish Connolly said.

Cascade Natural Gas repair crews were on scene, and the repairs were completed and road reopened before 4:30 p.m.

Drivers were urged to avoid the area and use other routes during the closure.

The gas leak did not result in any evacuations, but people at a nearby Bend Park & Rec facility were advised to shelter in place.