GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — U.S.-131 in Grand Rapids reopened just before 11 a.m. after it was closed for about several hours for emergency utility work, according to Consumers Energy.
Southbound and northbound lanes at Ann Street and Franklin Street were closed since 8:15 a.m. The eastbound I-196 to northbound US-131 ramp and the westbound I-196 to northbound US-131 ramp were closed as well.
The highway closure was done out of an abundance of caution by Consumers Energy crews as they made emergency repairs to equipment at Sixth Street NW and Scribner Avenue NW.
An equipment failure around 3 a.m. led to a fire at the top of an electrical pole, which caused 1,400 people to lose power in northwest Grand Rapids on Tuesday morning.
Most customers had their power back by 6:30 a.m., however, Consumers Energy had to lower power lines over the highway to make additional repairs. This led to the hours-long highway closure.
"We did that to make sure we keep everybody safe. We appreciate everybody's patience while we get the lights back on as quickly and safely as possible," said Consumers Energy spokesperson, Roger Morgenstern.
Consumers Energy said all customers had their power restored by about 12:20 p.m. The cause of the equipment failure will be investigated in the days to come.
RELATED VIDEO:
More Traffic News on 13 ON YOUR SIDE:
►Make it easy to keep up to date with more stories like this. Download the 13 ON YOUR SIDE app now.
Have a news tip? Email news@13onyourside.com, visit our Facebook page or Twitter. Subscribe to our YouTube channel.