Mahoning Avenue sinkhole repairs estimated at $260K

YOUNGSTOWN — The cost of repairing a major sinkhole that caused the collapse of water and sewer lines — and the closing off Mahoning Avenue — is estimated at $260,000.

The state will pick up 80 percent of the cost up to $213,000, Charles Shasho, the city’s deputy director of public works, said today.

The problems also include sewage and water backup into the basements of about 15 properties, all on Whitney Avenue except two on Mahoning Avenue on the city’s West Side.

The problems started last Friday with a water-line break on Mahoning Avenue, near McKinley Avenue. That was followed Monday by 250 feet of a nearby sewer line collapsing.

Heavy rain the next day helped create a sinkhole of about 25 feet across and 15 feet deep in that area.

The city on Tuesday closed the Frank Sinkwich Bridge — on Mahoning Avenue between Glenwood and McKinley avenues. It is expected to reopen next Wednesday.

For the complete story, read Saturday’s Vindicator and Vindy.com