Somerville Adds Winter Work To Tackle Gas Leaks

SOMERVILLE, MA — For the first time in Somerville history, the city is allowing gas main replacement during the winter to expedite efforts to eliminate gas leaks. National Grid began work to replace a century-old gas main on the eastern part of Pearl Street and Myrtle Street Jan. 13.

The main was identified as a priority for replacement by city officials and community advocates.

Large gas leaks can contribute to climate change and compromise environmental conditions at the local level. Reducing emissions from natural gas leaks is a priority outlined in Somerville Climate Forward, the city's action plan to address climate change and achieve carbon neutrality.

In a statement, Mayor Joseph Curtatone said not only do gas leaks pose a potential safety hazard, but the gas pipe system sends billions of cubic feet of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere annually, burdening gas customers by adding to their bills.

"If you ever wanted a problem with a clear win-win-win for solving it, this is it," Curtatone said.

The Pearl Street gas main replacement is expected to be completed this summer, prior to sidewalk reconstruction and roadway paving planned for the same area in 2021. Questions can be directed to the Engineering Department at (617) 625-6600 ext. 5400.