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El Cajon council adopts underground utility district for South Johnson Avenue with SDG&E funding
Summary
The council unanimously adopted a resolution creating Underground Utility District No. 29 for South Johnson Avenue between Main Street and El Cajon Boulevard, authorizing SDG&E to design and construct the approximately $3.7 million project using remaining Rule 20A funds; design is expected in 2025 and construction must finish by Dec. 31, 2033.
The El Cajon City Council unanimously adopted a resolution on Nov. 12 creating Underground Utility District No. 29 to underground overhead utility lines on South Johnson Avenue between Main Street and El Cajon Boulevard.
Mario Sanchez, the city engineer, told the council the project is being advanced as part of the California Public Utilities Commission Rule 20A undergrounding program and that about $3.7 million remains in the city’s Rule 20A account. "We would like to go ahead and have SDG&E design and construct the project," Sanchez said, adding that if adopted, design would commence in 2025 and all construction must be completed by Dec. 31, 2033.
Councilmember Michelle asked whether any city funds would be required. Sanchez replied, "Nothing comes out of our pocket," noting the project is planned to be funded and built by SDG&E under the Rule 20 process, though he cautioned unknowns could change that assessment.
The council closed the public hearing and moved to adopt the resolution. The motion carried by unanimous vote.
Why it matters: undergrounding removes overhead poles and wires, which the city says improves aesthetics and public safety and can support future redevelopment along Johnson Avenue. The city manager also noted the recent private developer work near 300 El Cajon Boulevard created an opportunity to extend undergrounding across the remaining public right-of-way.
What happens next: with the resolution adopted, staff told the council they will coordinate with SDG&E on design work and the schedule, with construction required to be completed by the end of 2033.
Votes at a glance: the council approved the resolution to create Underground Utility District No. 29 by unanimous vote.
Sources: City engineer Mario Sanchez's presentation and council discussion during the Nov. 12, 2024 meeting.
