Sterling Building Evacuated in Cleveland

The Sterling Building is evacuated due to structural concerns. October 30, 2012. (Photo Credit: Fox 8 News)

CLEVELAND — The Sterling Building in Downtown Cleveland has been evacuated due to safety concerns, the Cleveland Fire Department tells Fox 8 News.

According to Cleveland fire spokesperson Larry Gray, the main issue was heavy water damage to the structure at 1255 Euclid Avenue.

Cuyahoga County Executive Ed FitzGerald told Fox 8 News that the damage was likely weather-related and structural problems were not a concern.

The building is home to Cuyahoga County’s 911 service. All 911 calls are being transferred to the Cleveland Public Safety Dept.

A Fox 8 crew member on the scene says that a portion of one of the building’s walls is visibly “bowing out.”

Gray says city engineers are on the way to inspect the building.

No injuries have been reported.

FitzGerald said the city hopes to have workers return to the building by sometime this afternoon.

The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority advised the public that the HealthLine and E-Line Trolley was rerouted away from Euclid Avenue for a time due to the situation at the Sterling Building.

Service returned to normal shortly after 5 p.m., but the RTA warned downed trees, debris and standing water could still cause delays.

Stick with Fox 8 News and FOX8.com for updates as they become available.