Water Main Break Closes Whittier Vo-Tech, Nearly Disrupts Election

A major water main break on route 110 today snarled traffic, forced the closing of Whittier Regional Vocational Technical High School and threatened to disrupt Haverhill’s special election.

The water main break, first reported by WHAV this morning, caused Kenoza Avenue, route 110, to be closed between closed between Midlake Street and Newton Road, route 108, during the 11 a.m. hour. Police called the break “significant” and warned traffic would be stalled for several hours. Detours used Concord Street, North Avenue, Gile Street and Newton Road.

Whittier Vo-Tech Superintendent Maureen Lynch said the drop in water pressure forced her to dismiss students at 12:15 p.m., and cancel all after school events. Northern Essex Community College also cancelled remaining day and night classes, but kept open the Student Center for voters casting ballots there.

Haverhill schools—many also needed for the special state representative primary—remained opened after officials double checked fire safety systems.

“Life safety systems are functioning and therefore, there is no need to dismiss schools,” Haverhill School Superintendent James F. Scully said in an email to parents.

Officials asked resident throughout the city to curtail water usage until repairs are complete.