Sinkhole Shuts Down Southbound Route 111 in Smithtown

A sinkhole caused by an apparent water main break shut down southbound State Route 111 near Maple Avenue in Smithtown Wednesday, forcing motorists onto detours as state, town and Suffolk County Water Authority crews worked to repair the damage and restore the roadway.

"Sinkhole in Smitown, right in front of my job. Possible water main as it caused our whole building to lose all water," wrote Heater Bais on Facebook.

The New York State Department of Transportation said southbound Route 111 will remain closed until further notice in the vicinity of Maple Avenue.

Southbound Maple Avenue is also closed at Broadway. Northbound Route 111 remains open, although officials warned drivers to expect delays while emergency work continues.

Suffolk County police received a report of the sinkhole shortly before noon Wednesday. The Suffolk County Water Authority said it was first alerted at approximately 10:30 a.m. and dispatched crews to the scene.

Water service to 10 properties was affected by the break, including an apartment building and commercial properties.

Water Authority officials said repairs to the main were expected to require several hours, while cleanup and restoration of the roadway could take considerably longer.

NYSDOT advised southbound Route 111 motorists to use eastbound Cross Street, then southbound Plaisted Avenue, followed by westbound Route 347 to reconnect with Route 111.

Drivers traveling south on Maple Avenue are being directed east onto Broadway to reach Route 111.

There was no immediate timetable for fully reopening the affected roads. NYSDOT said its crews are working alongside the Suffolk County Water Authority and Town of Smithtown to complete repairs and reopen the roadway as quickly as possible.