South Toledo Sinkhole Causes Widespread Traffic Disruptions and Delays

Toledo, Ohio – Drivers in south Toledo have grown accustomed to detours around Arlington Avenue and Francis Avenue, just blocks from South Detroit Avenue, due to an expanding sinkhole that has led to major traffic disruptions. The sinkhole, which first appeared over a month ago, has progressively worsened, prompting road closures and concerns among residents.

Initially, only one side of Arlington Avenue was closed, but as the sinkhole has grown larger, the entire block between Francis Avenue and National Avenue is now impassable. Susan Theisen, a local resident, explained that the sinkhole had been “roped off” for about a month before the situation escalated to full road closure.

“I noticed it was getting worse,” Theisen said. “I haven’t driven on the other side, even when it was partially blocked, because I noticed it dipping. I wasn’t going to risk getting stuck.”

The growing sinkhole is the result of a collapsed 48-inch sanitary sewer located 45 feet underground. In response to the issue, the Toledo City Council approved a contracting bid in January to repair the sewer. However, as the sinkhole expanded, a second sinkhole opened up further down Arlington Avenue, complicating the situation.

The city spokesperson confirmed that the full closure of the road was necessary due to the expanding nature of the sinkholes. “The situation has become more complex than originally anticipated, requiring us to re-bid the project and enter into a new contract,” the spokesperson said. “We are opening up bids soon, and construction will begin as soon as the contract is finalized.”

While work is delayed, residents like Theisen must contend with not only the disruption to traffic but also the unsightly and increasingly hazardous conditions on Arlington Avenue. The uncertainty surrounding the project’s timeline continues to add to the frustration, leaving neighbors to cope with the noise and disruption that comes with the sinkhole repairs.

As the city works to resolve the issue, the affected area remains a focal point for traffic congestion, and residents are left waiting for a resolution to what has become an ongoing headache in south Toledo.