Board approves creation of underground utility district in Chester to use PG&E Rule 20A credits

The board adopted a resolution Feb. 18 establishing Underground Utility District No. 7 for a portion of Chester’s Main Street corridor, a step county staff said is required for PG&E to apply unused Rule 20A credits to underground overhead electric lines during a Caltrans Main Street pavement project scheduled for 2029–30.

Public works staff explained the district covers a limited stretch roughly from Feather River Drive to Erwin Way and that PG&E’s Rule 20A credit program will pay for undergrounding work carried out by PG&E crews. Staff emphasized the measure does not create a new assessment or fee for property owners in the affected area; a county official confirmed notification letters were mailed to residents in the proposed district prior to the hearing.

Board members opened a public hearing and received no objections. Staff said laterals and mains up to certain installation allowances would be included but that service‑panel modifications and removal of rooftop caps would not be covered; any lateral costs beyond PG&E’s allotment may be the responsibility of the parcel owner per the program rules described by staff.

The board approved the resolution by roll call. Staff said the program must be used before PG&E discontinues or reallocates the unused credits and that the county will coordinate the undergrounding with the Main Street paving timetable.

Ending: Supervisors said the utility undergrounding during pavement work will be pursued where credits allow and will be coordinated with Caltrans to minimize rework.