Public Service Commission. Northwest corner of Fifth Avenue and 23rd Street taken from the east shows street condition and water main break after explosion. Much of the damage to the street was actually caused by a series of explosions that occurred when leaking gas inside the main caught fire. Workers who were sent out to respond to water main breaks were referred to as "runners." March 8, 1914.

Public Service Commission. Camera west of 5th Avenue on 23rd Street, view looking east showing northwest corner of 5th Avenue and 23rd Street. Damage caused by a break in a 48-inch water main. In addition to having to close two 48-inch valves, workers had to close another six valves in order to prevent more water from leaking into nearby businesses. The men were commended by the bureau for being able to close all eight valves in a little over an hour—an impressive feat considering it took 300 turns to shut off a single 48-inch valve. March 9, 1914.