By: Richard L. Smith
Commuters are being urged to plan alternate routes this morning as repair crews work to contain a water main break that forced the closure of westbound lanes on Route 46 in Passaic County.
Police shut down the highway just before 4 a.m. after discovering the break on the ramp to Riverview Drive in Totawa.
The damaged main pushed water across the roadway, making the westbound side impassable.
Route 46 is heavily traveled during the morning rush, and officials warn that significant delays are expected as crews work to isolate and repair the line.
Detours are in place, but congestion is expected to build.
Drivers planning to use Route 46 West should consider leaving early or selecting an alternate route until the scene is cleared and the road is reopened. 
Authorities will release updates as repairs progress.