Water Main Break Floods Intersection at 39th and Troost, Disrupting Midtown Commute
It was just after 7 a.m. Tuesday when residents near the intersection of 39th Street and Troost Avenue in Midtown Kansas City noticed water gushing uncontrollably from beneath the street. By 7:15 a.m., the steady flow had transformed the intersection into a shallow pond, forcing drivers and pedestrians alike to navigate flooded sidewalks and stalled traffic. The sound of rushing water drowned out the usual morning bustle, turning this busy crossroads near the University of Missouri-Kansas City campus into a hazardous zone.
What Happened
Kansas City Water Services confirmed a major water main break occurred beneath 39th Street, just west of Troost Avenue. The break affected a 12-inch main that supplies water to the Midtown and Hyde Park neighborhoods. Crews responded quickly, shutting off the water supply around 8 a.m. to prevent further flooding, but the damage has already caused significant disruption. The flooding forced the temporary closure of 39th Street between Troost and Oak Street, a vital east-west artery connecting Midtown to the Westside and Crossroads districts.
Nearby businesses along Troost Avenue, including several small shops and restaurants, reported water intrusion into basements and lower floors. The Kansas City Fire Department issued a safety advisory warning residents to avoid the area due to potential electrical hazards and unstable road conditions. Public transportation routes through this section have been rerouted, causing delays for commuters relying on bus lines connecting Midtown with the Plaza and Downtown.
Why This Matters Locally
This break is more than an inconvenience — it threatens safety, daily routines, and property. Residents in Hyde Park and Midtown who depend on water from this main could face reduced pressure or outages lasting days. Flooded streets increase the risk of vehicle accidents, especially during morning rush hour when visibility is low and drivers may not expect standing water.
For homeowners and renters along Troost and 39th, water intrusion into basements risks costly damage to electrical systems, heating units, and personal property. Ignoring the flooding could lead to mold growth and structural damage, escalating repair bills and reducing housing value. Traffic delays from road closures will add stress and lost time for thousands who commute through this corridor daily.
Businesses in the area face lost revenue as foot traffic drops and employees struggle to reach work. For those living near the University of Missouri-Kansas City, the disruption complicates access to campus and student housing. The longer repairs take, the greater the economic and personal toll on this part of the city.
If This Happens to You: What to Do Immediately
- Do not attempt to drive or walk through flooded streets—water depth and road damage are unpredictable.
- Turn off your main water valve if you notice water entering your home to prevent further flooding.
- Move valuables, electrical appliances, and important documents off the floor or to higher ground.
- Unplug electrical devices in flooded areas to avoid electrocution risks.
- Contact your insurance company immediately to report any damage.
- Document the damage with photos or video for insurance and repair claims.
- Stay updated with Kansas City Water Services and local news for repair timelines and safety advisories.
When Local Professional Help Becomes Necessary
If your property has sustained water damage, professional intervention becomes critical. You need to contact licensed water damage restoration contractors to assess and mitigate mold risks and structural issues. Do not delay—mold can develop within 24 to 48 hours, worsening health risks and repair costs.
For legal concerns, such as disputes with landlords or insurance companies over damage claims, you must consult a local attorney experienced in property and tenant law. Early legal advice can prevent costly delays or denials.
If the flooding has affected your home’s foundation or electrical systems, you need to hire qualified contractors—structural engineers, electricians, and plumbers—to inspect and repair damage safely. DIY fixes in these areas can be dangerous and may violate city codes.
Residents and businesses should also consider consulting urban planners or community organizations if this incident reveals broader infrastructure vulnerabilities in Hyde Park or Midtown. Coordinated action may be necessary to prevent future breaks and flooding.
Local Context
The intersection of 39th Street and Troost Avenue is a key passage for thousands of Kansas Citians commuting between Midtown and neighborhoods like Westside and Crossroads. Many residents in Hyde Park, a historic neighborhood just north of 39th Street, rely on this route for daily errands, work, and school. The University of Missouri-Kansas City, located less than a mile west, draws students and faculty who use these streets regularly.
This water main break is a stark reminder of the aging infrastructure beneath Kansas City’s streets. Without urgent repair and professional oversight, residents face ongoing risks to safety, property, and quality of life. The disruption here will ripple through multiple neighborhoods until full repairs are completed.
Where This Is Happening in Kansas
The flooding centers at 39th Street and Troost Avenue, with closures extending west to Oak Street and east toward The Paseo. This stretch runs through Midtown and borders Hyde Park, two neighborhoods with dense residential and commercial zones. Nearby landmarks include the University of Missouri-Kansas City campus, just a few blocks west on 39th Street, and the historic Troost Market shopping district.
Locals traveling between Midtown, Crossroads, and the Westside use 39th Street as a main east-west corridor, while Troost Avenue serves as a critical north-south route through the city’s east side. Bus routes along these streets are vital for commuters without cars, making the disruption felt citywide.
