Update, 11:06 a.m.: U.S. 19 lanes are now open. The gas has been shut off. TECO is on scene.
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PORT RICHEY — Businesses have been evacuated and southbound U.S. 19 has been shut down as Pasco County authorities respond to a propane gas leak in the area of 11832 US. 19 south of State Road 52.
A county utility crew hit the gas line while repairing a leaking water line valve, according to county spokesman Doug Tobin. Tampa-based TECO Energy owns the line and is responding, Tobin said.
A call reporting the leak came at 10:17 a.m., Tobin said.
No injuries have been reported.