PG&E Pipeline Project To Delay Traffic On Hwy 12 In Sonoma Valley

SONOMA VALLEY, CA — Drivers can expect traffic delays for the next few months along state Highway 12 in Sonoma Valley as Pacific Gas and Electric Company upgrades the natural gas pipeline system that serves the communities of Boyes Hot Springs and Fetters Hot Springs-Agua Caliente, the utility company announced Friday in a news release.

Starting Monday, May 3, crews will begin work on SR-12 between Fetters and Central avenues. The work includes trenching underneath the highway to install 1,500 feet of natural gas pipeline, remove high-pressure regulators, and replace the service lines that branch off the mainline to homes and businesses.

Construction will take place 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Work hours at private properties and businesses are 7 a.m.- 5 p.m. No work is currently planned for weekends or holidays.

Traffic Delays Likely

Detours and lane closures are necessary throughout the duration of the project for the safety of the public and crews. Some streets may be reduced from two lanes to one, and traffic delays are likely for pedestrians and motorists.

PG&E will have traffic control in place for safety and to assist with the flow of traffic.

"Safety is our absolute first responsibility," said Austin Sharp, local senior manager for PG&E's Sonoma Division. "We recognize that this important safety work may affect traffic and be less convenient for local businesses and those who live in the area. We have and will continue to conduct extensive outreach, via in-person, phone calls and letters to bring awareness to the planned work and minimize impacts as much as possible."

Service Interruptions Possible

During the project, gas service to some customers may be impacted for a short time — typically between 2 and 4 hours, PG&E Spokesperson Deanna Contreras said.

Customers will be notified in advance, if, and when gas service will be interrupted, Contreras said.

Smell Of Natural Gas May Be Noticeable

During this replacement project, crews may need to release natural gas from the pipeline.

"The industry term for this is 'venting a pipeline,'" Contreras said. "As PG&E releases gas from the line, the smell of natural gas and the sound of venting may be noticeable. The natural gas released during venting will quickly dissipate into the atmosphere and will not be harmful."

However, PG&E does encourage anyone concerned about natural gas odors in or around their home or business to call PG&E at 800-743-5000, Contreras said.

Project Completion

Barring inclement weather or other factors, the project is expected to be complete by August.

"The new gas distribution line that we are installing supports the safe and reliable delivery of natural gas to Sonoma County," Sharp said. "We appreciate the community’s patience while the work takes place."