Traffic Being Diverted on Universe Due to Water Main Break

Albuquerque –

The Albuquerque Police Department is diverting traffic at Irving Blvd NW and Universe Blvd NW due to a water main break. A person driving in the area reported that there appeared to be a possible sinkhole developing.

APD has requested the water authority to respond to this location.

Drivers should anticipate delays and are advised to avoid the area. The intersection at Irving Blvd NW and Universe Blvd NW is closed in all directions. For your safety, do not attempt to enter any locations blocked by officers.

UPDATE:

The following is from the Water Authority:

January 15, 2026, 4:25 PM—

The intersection of Universe and Irving on Albuquerque’s West Side is COMPLETELY CLOSED in all directions due to a water main break.

The break, to a 12-inch PVC waterline, was first reported around 2:30 PM today and has led to widespread customer reports of low water pressure in the area. No service outages related to the break have been confirmed by Water Authority personnel.

Repair efforts are expected to continue overnight and motorists are advised to avoid this area and seek alternate routes during today’s and tomorrow’s commutes. Complete re-opening of the intersection may take several days.

-David Morris, Public Affairs Manager, Abq Bern. Co. Water Authority