Repairs continue on sinkhole in downtown Atlanta, lanes remain closed

ATLANTA - It has been more than 48 hours since a sinkhole opened up along a busy section of downtown Atlanta.

Crews with the Atlanta Department of Watershed Management are continuing to work on repairing it, but traffic continues to be impacted. 

What we know:

The sinkhole formed along Shirley Franklin Boulevard SW, formerly known as Central Avenue, between Rawson Street SW and Memorial Drive SW. Officials say a private contractor's hydro excavation in a nearby block unintentionally filled an abandoned line with water, which was compounded by the recent rain.  

On Thursday, crews continued to assess the damage and are working to cap the line. 

Three northbound lanes have been closed as a safety precaution, with two lanes remaining open to allow traffic through. 

Traffic control measures are in place to help direct drivers safely around the affected area. 

Authorities estimate that the lanes may reopen by the weekend and are asking drivers to avoid the area if possible.

What you can do:

Travelers heading eastbound on Interstate 20 should use exit 56B to Windsor Street SW, turn left on Windsor Street, and then continue north on Ted Turner Drive SW to avoid the closures.

Travelers heading northbound on Interstate 75/85 should use exit 246 to Fulton Street SW, stay right on the street, then turn left on Hank Aaron Drive SW, and finally continue north onto Capitol Avenue SE.