NEW YORK (AP)  -- New York City's Department of Environmental Protection says about seven buildings are still without water following the rupture of a 20-inch pipe along Manhattan's 57th Street earlier Monday morning.

1010 WINS AUDIO: Kathleen Maloney Reports

The Fire Department says nearby buildings have been declared stable.

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DEP spokeswoman Mercedes Padilla says a ground sample for asbestos came up positive -- requiring a cleanup before the water main break could be fixed.

Traffic, including buses, was rerouted following the incident, which occurred around 8:10 a.m. between Fifth and Sixth avenues.

1010 WINS' Kathleen Maloney said 57th Street is partially closed between 6th and Madison Avenues and could remain that way for the morning drive Tuesday.

A second possible water main break followed hours later closing 54th Street between Madison and Lexington Avenue for a brief time.

Photo by 1010 WINS' Kathleen Maloney

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