Electrical Fire Leaves Several Businesses Without Power Downtown Tuscaloosa, Alabama

The City of Tuscaloosa is currently responding to an electrical fire downtown, which will cut power to businesses and residences along University Boulevard.

Alabama Power will cut off power to all facilities between University Boulevard, Greensboro Avenue, 7th Street and 21st Avenue.

The impacted area, as outlined in a post to the City's Facebook page, stretches from Government Plaza to Half Shell Oyster House.

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The fire reportedly started underground, and several witnesses in the area saw smoke billowing up from the grates near Greensboro Avenue and 6th Street near the Bama Theatre.

Local business owner Craig Williams, owner of several downtown restaurants including Central Mesa and Avenue Pub, told The Thread that city officials told him they believe the power won't be restored until at least 6 p.m. today.

Several beloved businesses downtown will be forced to close for the day, unable to do business. Affected stores downtown include:

• Central Mesa
• Gray Lady
• Five
• Mugshots
• The Wine Market
• Catch 22

Until power is restored, City Hall will be unable to accept any digital payments.