DC PLUG: Comments Needed
Introduction:
DDOT/Pepco joint power line undergrounding program, DC PLUG, is undergrounding primary electrical feeders throughout the city in wards 3, 4, 5, 7 & 8. This is through a unique partnership between the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) and Pepco. The installation of the conduits and manholes is contracted by DDOT, while pulling the cable and splicing will be completed under a Pepco contract.
Background:
Washington Gas has raised concern about the miles of undergrounding work occurring around their 50-100 year old cast iron pipes and have asked DDOT to ‘cease and desist’ due to concerns with safety. The designs have met the recommended requirements regarding separation. Washington Gas has not, thus far, provided guidance on how to safely work around their facilities. The only solution they have provided is to wait until they relocate their facilities. Due to the time this may take, waiting for their relocations is not a viable option.
Discussion:
There are aged cast iron pipes all over the city. There must already be best practices working around these facilities. We are reaching out to experts in the construction industry and would like to learn from NUCA membership.
Questions:
- How are contractors currently working safety around these cast iron facilities?
- Have contractors been asked to perform their construction in specific ways to mitigate any safety concerns around cast iron facilities?
Time sensitive!
Comments due to Christy at ed@nucaofdc.org or 202-607-7658 by Monday, July 10!
