Crews use radar, cameras to find possible sink holes

BALTIMORE - Department of Public Works crews are using ground penetrating radar near the site of a 10-foot sinkhole in the 2300 block of  Monument Street due to concerns that another sinkhole might form.

DPW spokesman Kurt Kocher said in a release that crews are also using closed circuit television cameras in addition to physical inspection of the tunnel itself to find trouble spots in the 120 inch storm drain tunnel under the sinkhole. So far, crews have identified  a small water main leak and no problems on the sewer line.

Evaluation will continue and may extend into early next week.  Authorities said E. Monument Street between Patterson Park Ave and Milton Street remain closed until the investigation is complete.

The 10-foot sinkhole caused a natural gas leak and shut down part of Monument Street in East Baltimore Wednesday afternoon.

Department of Public Works and BGE and fire crews responded Wednesday afternoon to the sink hole that opened up over a 120-inch storm drain tunnel that carries water to the Inner Harbor. The drain, which dates back to 1901 has had problems on two other occasions, according to DPW spokesman Kurt Kocher.

Monument Street between Patterson Park Avenue and Milton Avenue is closed to traffic and pedestrians while repairs are being made.

Traffic is being detoured south on Wolfe Street and east on Orleans Street. The extent of the damage is unknown at this time, and this section of Monument Street is expected to remain closed for at least a week.

The Monument Street closure will have an impact on area traffic, especially during rush hour. Commuters headed east to Johns Hopkins may still use Monument Street to reach their destination.

However, motorists who are traveling farther east should expect delays along the posted detour and are sencouraged to use alternate routes. Suggested alternate routes include Orleans Street/Route 40, Fayette Street, Biddle Street and I-95.