Construction crews accidentally struck a gas line while excavating near Garfield Avenue and Oak Terrace Drive Thursday, forcing the complete closure of a large section of Garfield for more than an hour.

Grand Traverse Sheriff's Office and Grand Traverse Metro Fire Department officials responded to a report of a major gas leak at the construction site at 1:15pm. Authorities closed Garfield to all traffic between South Airport and Hammond roads to respond to the leak. While crews were working to repair the gas line, traffic congestion in the area compounded when a motorcycle accident occurred at the same time on Garfield near Lucky Jack's. A northbound motorcycle hit a vehicle entering Garfield, injuring the motorcycle driver. The motorcyclist was transported to Munson Medical Center for treatment. The gas line was repaired and Garfield reopened at 2:30pm.

Some traffic delays are expected to continue on Garfield today (Thursday) and Friday as the Grand Traverse County Road Commission works in the same construction area. The southbound, far right lane of Garfield will be closed for road construction occurring on Oak Terrace Drive, with the lane closure beginning just north of Oak Terrace and continuing to just south of Oak Terrace. Closures will begin at 9am and continue throughout the day. Motorists are advised to drive slowly and use caution while traveling through the work area.

Photo credit: Grand Traverse Sheriff's Office