METRO says its contractor caused water leak that flooded northeast Houston neighborhood

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- Part of a northeast Houston neighborhood flooded over the weekend, with high water even getting inside a local business and some cars.

METRO confirmed to ABC13 that while its contractor was relocating equipment for a bus stop improvement project, they hit and damaged a waterline valve stack on Friday night.

ABC13 looked at 311 records and found calls to the city that evening and the following day as well.

The first call came in on Friday at around 8:42 p.m. According to that report, the caller stated contractors hit a service line, and the area was flooding with a machine in the ditch upside down.

Houston Public Works said an inspector went out that night, but couldn't fix it because the tractor was still in the ditch. Crews had to wait until the contractor removed it, according to public works. The department said it completed repairs on Saturday afternoon.

At first glance, Melinda Miller said she thought a storm came through her neighborhood when she saw all the water.

"I told my daughter-in-law to call the city of Houston to see what's going on," Miller said. "Why are we underwater?"

Miller said while she's grateful the flooding is gone, she's now stuck dealing with the aftermath.

"My son's car is full of water," Miller said.

ABC13 asked METRO who would be responsible for repairs. They said in this case, the contractor is the one to reach out to regarding property or vehicle damage. ABC13 reached out to the contractor, and is waiting for a response.