A severed natural gas line in Glenwood has forced authorities to evacuate a four-block neighborhood near the old Glenwood swimming pool. The incident, in the area of 3rd and Elm Streets, was reported at around 9-a.m., when a construction crew hit the gas line.

Law enforcement and Glenwood Fire / Rescue personnel were working on evacuating residents from their homes and sheltering them at the Grace United Methodist Church at 2nd and Walnut in Glenwood, as a safety precaution.  Residents were asked to leave the area on foot and not by motor vehicle.They even posted a warning on social media for people to “Quit shooting fireworks while a major gas leak is going on!”

According to reports, the gas leak could be heard and smelled from several blocks away. Utility company representatives were notified. Motor vehicle traffic is currently prohibited in the area.