Major portion of The Plaza reopens after large branch downs power lines

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A major section of The Plaza was shut down early Wednesday morning after a giant branch fell overnight, taking down power lines.

It happened around 2 a.m. and it's blocking the lanes of The Plaza between Eastway Drive and Milton Road in east Charlotte.

The road was closed through morning rush hour traffic.

When Duke Energy crews first started working on the power lines, there were more than 2,400 people in the area without power.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools told Channel 9 Briarwood Elementary lost power, but it will be operating as usual and opening on time.

"Safety and security are top priority as our teams will work to provide meals for breakfast and an environment for teaching and learning today. Duke Energy anticipates power to be restored around 9 a.m. We look forward to seeing all of our scholars on time this morning," the school said in a message sent to parents.

Officials reopened the inbound lanes around 10 a.m., but asked that drivers slow down in the area as Duke Energy crews continue to work.

Cox Media Group