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East Salt Lake City's Foothill Boulevard was open to commuters Monday morning, but a section of 1700 South remained closed as crews continued repair work in the wake of Friday night's water main break and subsequent 2.5 million-gallon flood.
The break in the 48-inch water main — blamed on a failed fitting — sent a river flowing west on 1700 South to near 2500 East, from near its intersection with Foothill Boulevard. Varying amounts of flooding were reported in 34 homes as well as the Montessori Community School at 2416 E. 1700 South.
The school remained closed Monday. Parents were told there was no firm estimate for when repairs and cleanup would allow students to return. Lower-lying classrooms reportedly were flooded with 2 to 3 inches of water.
"We are researching alternative spaces to hold class until all repairs are made to the building and we can bring students back in to the basement classrooms," the school said in a statement on its website, noting the campus itself would be closed at least a week.
Salt Lake City Fire Department spokesman Jasen Asay said Monday it was likely the flooded section of 1700 South would remain closed into the midweek.
Art Raymond, a spokesman for the mayor's office, said damage estimates for 18 homes, confirmed so far to have sustained water damage, as well as the school were still being compiled Monday.
"It is our financial responsibility to make people whole," Raymond said, noting that the city conducted door-to-door contacts over the weekend at affected properties.
The city asks any residents who experienced damage due to the break to call Salt Lake City Public Utilities at 801-483-6700. Also, claim forms can be accessed at this website: http://www.slcgov.com/sites/default/files/documents/attorney/2013/NoticeOfClaimForm.pdf.
remims@sltrib.com Twitter: @remims