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

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

Buildings in the area include the State Capitol 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 hit a gas line shortly after 1 p.m. 9 Wednesday.

Car and pedestrian traffic in the area is diverted.

In addition, the Georgia Capitol was evacuated as a precaution after air quality readings indicated that gas levels in the area were of concern, and around At 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 for customers who want to use Uber or Lyft.

Officials are currently taking additional readings in the area to determine if other evacuations are needed. Officials are also advising people in the area who have respiratory problems to take precautions, although there is not an extreme risk at this time. They are also asking people to avoid the area if they can.

This story is in development. Check back for details. If you have additional information, pictures or video email [email protected].