Smoke Testing Downtown Evansville on Thursday Morning

Evansville residents and commuters are warned to keep an eye out. They may see smoke in downtown Evansville on Thursday morning, but it's likely not what you think.

It's been nearly three months since a massive sinkhole opened up in the middle of Evansville's Riverside Drive. Crews have continued working to make repairs after discovering that a water main had broken under the roadway.

How the Sinkhole Sparked a Bigger Investigation

While crews reportedly repaired the water main leak, they found that a large, brick storm sewer much further underground may have been the real cause of the sinkhole. On February 26th, we were told the road would be closed for "several more days."

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Why You Might See Smoke Downtown Thursday Morning

Initially, Riverside Drive was closed to westbound traffic between Chestnut and Cherry Streets, with traffic diverted onto Cherry and detoured along Southeast Second Street. Eventually, it was determined that the eastbound lane of Riverside also needed to be closed to traffic.

What Is Smoke Testing and Why Is It Needed

Crews are still working, and an investigation is now underway to determine if there are more "leaks, cracks, and other defects" in the underground sewer system surrounding the sinkhole and the immediate area.

Alex Morgan Imaging

Areas Impacted by the Sewer Smoke Test

According to information shared by the Evansville Water and Sewer Utility, they will begin "smoke testing" in portions of downtown to check for any leaks or cracks. The testing will take place along Southeast Riverside Drive between Cherry and Walnut Streets, as well as along Chestnut Street between Riverside and Southeast First Street.

When Will Riverside Drive Reopen to Traffic

The smoke testing will occur on Thursday, May 15, 2025, between the hours of 7 am and Noon. Evansville Water and Sewer Utility advises the public that they may notice smoke rising from yards, buildings, and manhole covers. They say the smoke is safe, non-toxic, and will dissipate quickly. There is no word on when Riverside Drive will be reopened to traffic.

[SOURCE: EWSU via Facebook]

See How Downtown Evansville Has Changed Over the Years

I find looking back on the way things used to be fascinating. Don't get me wrong, I'm glad I'm living through the current time period. The conveniences of answering any question we have in seconds, or ordering practically anything we want or need and having it delivered to our doorstep is pretty sweet. But, there is something fun about seeing how things around us have evolved. As an Evansville native, and spending quite a bit of my time in downtown Evansville (that's where the station is located), I've always appreciated the older architecture of the buildings around the area. So, I dug into the Willard Library Archives to see how a few of those areas look now compared to then. Some have changed a little, others quite a bit, and a few don't even exist any more. Take a look.

Gallery Credit: Ryan O'Bryan