The City of Cambridge has closed Oxford Street to vehicles because of repairs to underground pipes that city officials say may take several months. The closure affects Kirkland and Oxford streets from the corner of Quincy Street to the corner of Leverett Street.

The closure is necessary because of concern for public safety while the pipe systems are being assessed and repaired, said Steve White, deputy commissioner of the Public Works Department.

Only emergency vehicles responding to emergencies will be allowed access during the repairs.

"The sanitary sewer and storm water pipes are still in service," said White. "We do not anticipate any interruptions in these services."

For more details, call the Public Works Department at (617) 349- 4800 or the Traffic Department at (617) 349-4700.