A contractor broke a gas main near Briarwood Mall in Ann Arbor this evening, a DTE Energy spokesman said.

Crews were on scene just after 6 p.m. shutting off the gas and preparing to repair the line, said Scott Simons.

Ann Arbor Fire Department Battalion Chief Robert Vogel said the 3-inch line likely would be repaired by 7:45 p.m. The fire department, DTE officials and Briarwood security and staff decided not to evacuate the mall, he said, adding that they continue to monitor levels. The smell can be detected in the mall, but there are no flammable gases.

The contractor was working on the construction of a new hotel near the mall, reports indicated.