RED BLUFF — PG&E is modernizing the natural gas distribution system in Red Bluff as part of its ongoing effort to create the safest, most reliable gas system in the nation. PG&E crews are performing the upgrades through October in an area known for its many Victorian homes.
“This pipe replacement project will improve the safety and integrity of the natural gas system. This is one of many gas and electric upgrades we’ve been making recently in the area to improve the safety and reliability of our infrastructure,” said Lia White, senior manager of PG&E’s North Valley division.
Crews will be working until October upgrading gas pipelines in Red Bluff. (Photo by Paul Moreno.)
Traffic impacts will be minimal as much of the work will occur on wide streets. To limit the amount of trenching and traffic impacts, PG&E will generally bore beneath the surface to install pipe. More than 5,700 feet of 2-, 4- and 6-inch plastic and steel gas lines will be upgraded.
The pipeline upgrades are occurring in an area bordered by Washington, Lincoln, Walnut and Breckenridge streets. Cost of the project is about $1.6 million.
Work will generally occur Monday to Friday between 7:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. Motorists should allow for extra time when traveling through the area as at times, one-way traffic controls or detours may be in effect. Once upgrades are complete, the new pipes will be tested to ensure they are operating safely before being placed into service.
There will be a brief interruption in gas service as the old steel lines are taken out of service and new lines are placed into service. PG&E has directly contacted all 70 customers who will experience a temporary service interruption as well as other residences and businesses in the neighborhood.
This is the last of three phases of PG&E’s effort to modernize the gas distribution system in historic parts of Red Bluff. In January, PG&E completed the first phase and in March PG&E completed the second phase. When the third phase is complete, PG&E will have upgraded nearly 12,000 feet of new plastic and steel gas lines.
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 us at 1-800-743-5000.
Email Currents at currents@pge.com.