AUSTIN - During scheduled work earlier this afternoon, one of nine gates at Longhorn Dam failed in the open position causing the Lady Bird Lake level to begin dropping. The cause of the failure is under investigation. As of 2 p.m., the water level at Lady Bird Lake is down by one foot and continues dropping.
 
Austin Water and contractors are currently working to manually stop the flow of water out of Longhorn Dam. The malfunction does not impact water or wastewater services for Austin Water customers. The water level of Lady Bird Lake, however, will be low until the repairs are completed. 

South Pleasant Valley Road, between Cesar Chavez Street and South Lakeshore Boulevard, is currently closed to motor vehicle and pedestrian traffic in both directions while repairs are being conducted.

Austin Water has notified the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) and downstream communities.