RED BLUFF — PG&E began work to modernize natural gas distribution pipes in a Red Bluff historic neighborhood known for its many Victorian homes. PG&E crews are scheduled to perform the $2.3 million in upgrades through October.
PG&E is modernizing its gas distribution system in historic areas of Red Bluff. (Photo by Paul Moreno.)
“This pipeline replacement project will improve system safety and integrity, of natural gas service in this historic area of Red Bluff,” said Erik Kurtz, gas superintendent or PG&E’s North Valley and Sierra divisions.
Traffic impacts will be minimal as many of the gas distribution lines are on wide streets. To limit the amount of trenching, PG&E will also bore beneath the surface to install pipe. More than 3,900 feet of new 2-inch plastic gas lines are being installed.
The pipeline upgrades are along portions of Main, Grant, Lincoln, Crittenden, Chipman, Breckenridge, Douglas, Jackson, Madison, Jefferson, Cedar and Washington streets, as well as work in alleys. PG&E has notified residents and businesses in the project areas.
Work will generally occur Monday to Friday between 7 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Once upgrades are complete, the new pipes will be tested to ensure they are operating safely before being placed into service.
This is the first of three phases to modernize the gas distribution system in historic areas of Red Bluff. The other phases could start work in 2015.
Following standard safety practices, crews will vent natural gas from pipelines as the project progresses. As PG&E vents the pipe, the smell of natural gas and the sound of venting may be noticeable to nearby homes and businesses, depending on wind direction.
The natural gas will quickly dissipate into the atmosphere and will not be harmful; however, PG&E encourages anyone who has concerns about natural gas odors in or around their home or business to call 1-800-743-5000.