Gas leak shuts down traffic near Highway 17 in Brunswick County

BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — The Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office is assisting with a gas leak in the area of Highway 17 and New Pointe Boulevard.

Deputy Fire Chief Shelton James said the leak happened when a construction crew working in the area punctured a four-inch gas line, causing a pressure drop for nearby businesses.

The leak is isolated to the area and will not affect other lines.

As of now, the leak has been stopped, but Dunkin’, Chingon Taqueria, Omni Dental, 7-Eleven, and Leland Tobacco will remain closed until repair work is completed.

It has not been confirmed how long that process could take.

Drivers can enter Ocean Gate Plaza from U.S. Highway 17 and exit via New Pointe Boulevard.

Traffic will not be able to exit from Gateway Boulevard onto U.S. Highway 17.

Drivers are asked to avoid the area, use alternate routes and expect delays until the scene is deemed safe.