PGW's Pipeline Improvement Map
Each year, PGW upgrades approximately 30 miles of its natural gas mains with new, modern pipes. Pipeline improvement directly supports the delivery of safe, reliable energy and advances our methane reduction program efforts.
At this accelerated pace, PGW anticipates that all of its unprotected steel service lines and cast iron mains will be replaced by 2038 and 2058, respectively.
Check out the map to see which neighborhoods we’re working in.
What to Expect: 5 Steps
We realize construction projects of this scope often raise a lot of questions, and we’re committed to answering all of them. To start, here are five primary steps to expect while natural gas mains on your street are replaced.
What to Expect: 5 Steps - English
Neighborhood Notification
Before pipeline work begins, PGW crews and/or contractors notify residents and businesses in the immediate neighborhood. Parking restrictions will also be posted on impacted streets using standard parking notices.
Underground Utility Marking
Pennsylvania law requires all companies with underground facilities locate and mark their utility lines with non-permanent paint before excavation begins. PGW uses yellow and white paint.
New Main Installation
PGW contractors will dig a trench and other holes along the street and/or sidewalks so that new plastic or coated steel pipes can be installed. Natural gas mains are typically located in the street, close to the curb. During this process, cars parked in the work zone must be relocated to an area where work is not being performed. "No Parking" signs will be posted prior to the start of work. If cars are not moved, our contractors will relocate vehicles to the nearest location outside of the work zone. At the end of each day, trenches and holes will be covered and all equipment will be stored out of the way.
In general, daily work hours based on the City posted hours of operation are Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
New Service Line Installation
After new main is installed (Step 3), your service lines into your property will need to be replaced. An authorized adult, 18 years or older, must provide PGW and/or our contractors access into your home to service your natural gas meter and appliances. A PGW representative will contact you directly before we begin this step to coordinate a convenient time to complete this step.
Property/Neighborhood Restoration
After your gas service has been restored; PGW will begin to restore the area back to its original condition. First, PGW will " backfill" open trenches and holes with temporary paving. Second, PGW will replace the temporary paving with permanent paving and repair sidewalks, lawns and driveways to their original state, weather permitting. Permanent paving will not be done when temperatures fall below freezing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kinds of disruptions can these projects cause?
Sometimes service disruptions are necessary to keep our system maintained and updated. PGW tries to make sure that no individual property is without natural gas service for more than eight hours. When such delays are necessary, we appreciate the support and patience of our neighbors as we ensure the continued safety and reliability of our system.
We also attempt to avoid road closures unless completely necessary and to guarantee that trash pick-up and delivery are not interrupted.
Who pays for this work?
Projects that are part of PGW’s system maintenance work are already factored into the annual rates charged to PGW customers.
Will all sidewalks be replaced once work is complete?
Yes. All natural gas pipelines are buried, so digging is necessary for our crews. For that reason, PGW is committed to restoring roads and sidewalks impacted by our work. We take pride in leaving things the way we found them or better.
What if I have additional questions?
For other questions contact the PGW Public Affairs office: 215-684-6880.
