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PG&E accepts responsibility after two gas‑line strikes during Main Street grinding; city seeks better notifications
Summary
Two unmarked former gas laterals were struck during Main Street grinding; PG&E crews responded and took responsibility, and city staff said they will improve incident communications and follow up after an after‑action review.
City public‑works staff and public‑safety officials told the Ukiah City Council on Wednesday that PG&E has taken responsibility after two separate incidents in which unmarked, former gas laterals were struck during Main Street grinding operations.
Public Works Director Tim Erickson said crews were aware of a main gas line but that the strikes involved unmarked laterals that were not shown in current marking. PG&E sent crews to the scene both times; Erickson said the utility ‘‘has taken full responsibility’’ and brought specialized equipment and personnel to the site.
The incidents occurred while the city’s contractor was grinding and preparing Main Street; the city paused work and coordinated with PG&E and public safety. Erickson said the contractor will continue work beginning the following Friday on a route designed to avoid further conflict with the eastern gas main. He emphasized the utility is responsible for its lines but that older, abandoned laterals are a known issue and that PG&E crews have been responsive.
Council members raised concerns about public notifications. Several said Nixle (emergency alert) messages went out with minimal detail and that follow‑up updates on social media were delayed; staff said Nixle messages are character‑limited and are focused on immediate life‑safety information, but that they will improve coordination between Nixle alerts and the city’s social‑media posts. Staff also noted the automated Spanish translation system sometimes produces awkward translations and said the city will review translations for future alerts.
Council also asked whether PG&E’s acceptance of responsibility includes reimbursement for city costs or delay claims; staff said that is a possibility and that the city may seek reimbursement for costs tied to the incidents if appropriate.
No formal council action was required; staff said they will continue after‑action review with PG&E and refine notification protocols for future incidents.
