BOARDMAN – A portion of Market Street in Boardman is closed and several businesses have been evacuated after a utility crew struck a natural gas line causing a leak this morning.

Market Street is closed in both directions between Arlene and Gertrude avenues.

Boardman Township fire Capt. Bill Glaser said First Energy crews were drilling for installation of utility pole when they damaged a natural gas line just before 9 a.m. today.

About 12 businesses in the area have been evacuated, including Midas, a dance academy and an employment agency, while crews work to repair the gas line.

Officials said the leak has been isolated, but crews on the scene have not indicated how long the repairs will take. In the meantime, traffic is being detoured off Market Street and through an adjacent residential area.

Boardman fire crews, Dominion East Ohio and First Energy remain on the scene.