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        Somerville, Bridgewater-Raritan schools closed today as crews work to repair water main break

        Route 206 is closed in both directions and detours are in place.

        Toniann Antonelli and Tony Caputo

        Oct 30, 2024, 11:55 AM

        Updated 1 hr ago

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        A large water main break on the border of Raritan and Somerville has prompted the Somerville and Bridgewater-Raritan school districts to cancel classes for today.
        Route 206 north is closed from Dukes Parkway in Hillsborough to Somerset Street in Raritan.
        The Somerville district posted an announcement at about 7 a.m. this morning on social media saying that "due to a water main break, Somerville Public Schools will be closed today, Wednesday, October 30th. Thank you for your understanding, and we apologize for any inconvenience."
        About 30 minutes later, Bridgewater-Raritan School District also posted an announcement on Facebook canceling school for today.
        Somerville Mayor Brian Gallagher also released a statement about the water main break and the town's response.
        "There is no water currently in Somerville. We are working with NJ American Water and our local emergency management and emergency responders to quickly resolve the situation and keep everyone safe," Gallagher said.
        Somerville Borough Hall is also closed today due to the water main break.
        Denise Free, a spokesperson for NJ American Water told News 12 crews have been dispatched to the scene to investigate and repair the break.
        "We are aware of a main break on Rt 206 in Raritan/Hillsborugh. Crews are mobilizing to investigate. Please Avoid Route 206 in Raritan from Somerset Street to Dukes Pkwy in Hillsborough. All lanes are closed northbound and southbound. We will provide updates when more information is available," Free said.
        Police in Raritan Borough also issued an alert around 6:45 a.m. about the issue, advising people in the area about the road closures and possible water service interruptions.
        "Raritan residents will experience water usage issues," police said in a social media post.
        The utility company is still investigating and did not yet have information on how many water customers were affected or how long repairs could take.