A section of First Street between Constitution and Independence avenues has been closed to vehicle traffic this morning after a sinkhole formed adjacent to a Capitol Visitor Center construction project.

The problem occurred adjacent to a temporary bridge over a utility tunnel that is being built to supply the CVC with water and electricity.

A section of Maryland Avenue, between First and Second streets Northeast, has also been shut down as a result of the sinkhole and workers expect the closures to remain in effect until approximately noon. Pedestrian access along the east side of First Street has not been affected.

— John McArdle