REDDING – PG&E is upgrading 200 feet of natural gas distribution pipe with larger pipe in north Redding.
“This pipe replacement project will improve the safety, capacity and integrity of the natural gas system,” said Erik Kurtz, gas distribution superintendent for PG&E’s North Valley and Sierra divisions.
PG&E crews have begun a pipeline upgrade project in Redding. (Photo by Jesse Higginson.)
The pipeline upgrade is along Twin View Boulevard across the intersection of Midway Drive, a distance of 200 feet. PG&E crews will replace an existing 2-inch steel pipe with a 4-inch steel pipe. The larger pipe will increase natural gas capacity in the area.
There will be one-way traffic controls on this portion of Twin View Boulevard from Monday to Saturday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. until about January 24. PG&E crews will trench and install pipe in the northbound lane of Twin View Boulevard.
Midway Drive also will be closed 24 hours a day from Twin View Boulevard for a few hundred feet east along Midway Drive until the project is completed.
No customers will lose natural gas service during the project.
Once upgrades are complete, the new pipe will be tested to ensure it is operating safely before being placed into service.
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 might 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.