Georgia Capitol evacuated due to gas leak, Georgia State MARTA station closed

ATLANTA – The Atlanta Fire Rescue Department and Atlanta Gas are on scene of a large gas leak in downtown Atlanta.

Buildings in the area include the State Capitol Building and the Georgia State MARTA Station.

According to the Georgia Department of Public Safety, construction crews were working on the corner of Martin Luther King Jr. Drive SE and Piedmont Avenue SW when they encountered a gas line just after 9 a.m. Wednesday.

Vehicle and pedestrian traffic in the area will be redirected.

Additionally, the Georgia Capitol was evacuated as a precaution after air quality measurements indicated that gas levels in the area were concerning, and at approximately 10:30 a.m., the Fire Department ordered the evacuation and closure of the Georgia State MARTA Station.

Rail service to the station has been suspended and a bus bridge will provide transportation between Five Points and King Memorial. MARTAConnect is also available to customers who want to use Uber or Lyft.

Officials are currently conducting additional measurements in the area to determine if further evacuations are necessary. Officials are also advising people in the area who are having breathing problems to take precautions, although there is no extreme risk at this time. They are also asking people to avoid the area if possible.

This story is developing. Further information can be found here. If you have additional information, pictures or a video email [email protected].