Water main break swamps Norwood artery

Crews were working throughout the day to reach the broken pipes, as three pumps worked to alleviate flooding near the intersection of Route 1 and Morse Street.

“It’s a major break,’’ said Gerry Kelleher, chairman of the Norwood Board of Selectmen.

The roadway collapsed in the process, and as of early evening, crews had yet to reach the pipes, which are buried nearly 10 feet deep, Town Manager John Carroll said.

Carroll said many local businesses were affected by water pressure-related issues resulting from the break.

Chipotle Mexican Grill on Route 1 was forced to close its doors after employees discovered that no water was coming from the restaurant’s faucets. Water soon came trickling in but had a brownish tinge, prompting employees to flush the system for about an hour, employee Rob Jacobson said.

After the water was given a clean bill of health, employees cranked up the restaurant’s ovens and were planning to reopen at 7 last night, Jacobson said.

A nearby Bertucci’s restaurant closed its doors as well, although it was accepting carryout orders.

Traffic was slowed, but Carroll said he was grateful there was no Patriots home game to turn the slowdown into a full-blown traffic jam.

“Thank God they’re in Pittsburgh,’’ Carroll said of the team.

Yesterday’s pleasant weather made it slightly easier on public works crews, who were also contending with the wetlands that straddle the highway.

“Some of those guys will be out there all night,’’ Kelleher said. “They’re going to fix it as fast as they can.’’

Emma Stickgold can be reached at estickgold@globe.com