Water Main Break Floods 39th Street and Troost Avenue Intersection, Disrupts Midtown Traffic
At 7:15 a.m. Tuesday, the normally bustling intersection of 39th Street and Troost Avenue in Midtown Kansas City was a scene of chaos. Water gushed from a ruptured main, flooding the roadway and spilling into nearby sidewalks. Commuters trapped in stalled cars stared in disbelief as the water rapidly rose, turning the busy thoroughfare into a hazardous, impassable zone.
Emergency crews from the Kansas City Water Services Department arrived within minutes, but the damage was already done. Several businesses along Troost Avenue, including the popular Midtown Coffee House near 38th Street, reported water seeping into basements. Residents of the nearby Hyde Park neighborhood woke up to streets flooded with muddy water, raising immediate concerns about property damage and safety.
What Happened
The cause was a major water main break on Troost Avenue just south of 39th Street. The 12-inch cast iron pipe, installed over 60 years ago, failed under pressure, sending thousands of gallons of water onto the street. The rupture forced the closure of Troost Avenue between 38th and 41st Streets and the shutdown of 39th Street between Troost and Main Street for emergency repairs.
Kansas City Water Services confirmed the outage will affect water pressure for homes and businesses throughout the Midtown and Hyde Park neighborhoods for at least 48 hours. The local fire department cautioned residents to avoid the area due to the risk of electrical hazards from submerged power lines. Traffic was rerouted through adjacent residential streets, causing backups on Gillham Road and Oak Street.
Why This Matters Locally
If you live or work near Troost Avenue or 39th Street, this break is more than an inconvenience. Flooding in this area threatens your property and safety. Water infiltration into basements can cause costly damage to foundations, electrical systems, and appliances. Without immediate action, you risk mold growth and structural weakening that can take months to repair.
Traffic disruptions on Troost Avenue and 39th Street ripple out to the surrounding neighborhoods, including Hyde Park and the Crossroads Arts District. Commuters face longer travel times, increased stress, and the potential for accidents on unfamiliar detour routes. For residents relying on public transit, some bus lines have been suspended or rerouted, affecting daily routines and work schedules.
Local businesses along Troost Avenue are already reporting lost revenue as customers avoid the flooded area. This break comes at a critical time when many are still recovering from pandemic-related economic challenges. If water pressure remains low, restaurants and shops may have to halt operations or limit services, further stressing the local economy.
If This Happens to You: What to Do Immediately
- Turn off your main water valve to prevent flooding inside your home if you notice water backing up or leaks.
- Avoid walking or driving through flooded streets—water may be deeper than it looks and could hide hazards like open manholes or electrical wires.
- Move valuables and electronics off the floor and to higher ground to minimize water damage.
- Document any property damage with photos or video for insurance and repair claims.
- Contact your homeowner’s insurance provider immediately to report damage and begin the claims process.
- Stay updated with Kansas City Water Services and local news for restoration timelines and safety advisories.
- If you smell gas or see exposed electrical wires, evacuate immediately and call 911.
When Local Professional Help Becomes Necessary
Flood damage and water main breaks are complex emergencies where DIY fixes can worsen the situation. If your property has suffered flooding or structural damage, you need to contact professional contractors immediately. Licensed plumbers and water damage restoration experts can assess and repair leaks, extract water, and prevent mold growth.
Legal help becomes necessary if your property suffers significant damage or if disputes arise with landlords, insurance companies, or the city over liability and compensation. A local attorney familiar with Kansas City property and municipal law can guide you through claims and ensure your rights are protected.
For homeowners and businesses planning longer-term repairs or remodeling after flood damage, professional planners and contractors are essential. They will ensure compliance with city codes and help secure necessary permits from Kansas City’s Building and Inspection Services.
Local Context
Troost Avenue is a major north-south artery in Kansas City, running through several neighborhoods including Midtown and Hyde Park. It connects residents to schools like Paseo Academy, local landmarks such as the historic 39th Street District, and institutions like the Kansas City Public Library’s Central Branch a few miles north. Thousands pass through this corridor daily for work, school, and errands.
This water main break is a stark reminder of the aging infrastructure beneath our streets and the real risks residents face when critical repairs delay. Ignoring the damage or the risks could mean costly repairs, health hazards, and prolonged disruptions to daily life.
Where This Is Happening in Kansas
The break is centered on Troost Avenue between 38th and 41st Streets, directly impacting the Midtown neighborhood and spilling into adjacent Hyde Park. Nearby streets affected by flooding and detours include 39th Street, Gillham Road, Oak Street, and Main Street.
Landmarks within walking distance include the historic 39th Street retail corridor and the Boulevard Brewing Company just a few blocks west on Southwest Boulevard. Residents of Hyde Park and Midtown often use Troost Avenue as a primary route to downtown Kansas City or to access public transit hubs along Main Street.
Commuters traveling between the Crossroads Arts District and neighborhoods south of 39th Street will experience delays and should plan alternate routes. Local schools, businesses, and community centers in these neighborhoods are already adjusting schedules and operations in response.
