What caused the road cracks in Charleroi?

Road cracks in Charleroi are being investigated, with potential causes including pre-existing voids, recent pipeline construction, and aging infrastructure.

Is there a risk of another trench collapse in Charleroi?

While a specific lane is closed as a precaution, the Charleroi borough manager stated there is no imminent danger of another major collapse or sinkhole.

How is Columbia Gas responding to road concerns in Charleroi?

Columbia Gas completed its pipeline project in December and states they are not responsible for the current cracks, but encourage customers to report specific issues for investigation.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / Charleroi Roads Crumble Amidst Construction Fears

Charleroi Roads Crumble Amidst Construction Fears

22 Jan

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Summary

Trench collapse occurred five months ago, trapping a worker.
Cracks and ruts have formed on several streets after pipeline project.
Emergency vehicles face response delays due to damaged roads.

Charleroi Roads Crumble Amidst Construction Fears

Residents and leaders in Charleroi are voicing significant concerns regarding the stability of borough roads. These worries intensified after a trench collapse five months ago on McKean Avenue, which trapped a worker nearly 15 feet underground. Near the collapse site, new cracks have begun to appear on the road surface.

Following the collapse, KDKA Investigates reported on potential pre-existing road conditions, likely stemming from aging infrastructure, which had small subsurface voids. Concurrently, Columbia Gas undertook a pipeline replacement project throughout the borough, beginning in early 2025 and concluding at the end of December. Fire Chief Robert Whiten Jr. noted that significant road deterioration, including ruts and cracks, began after this project commenced.

These road conditions are reportedly creating issues for emergency vehicles, potentially delaying responses. One particularly problematic area is near McKean Avenue and Eighth Street, where a lane remains closed due to construction, with visible cracks. PennDOT has been notified and is evaluating the damage. While the borough manager stated there is no imminent danger of a sinkhole, one lane was blocked off as a precaution until repairs can be made.