Corbett Heights Neighbors

Wondering what is happening with the progress of the Utility Undergrounding District 311 or Corbett Phase 2? The following is our understanding of the current status and remaining steps.

Steps in the Process:

Notification Process. DPW sent homeowners letters June 11, 2004 and February 8, 2005 informing them of the following phases and responsibilities.

Phase 1. Installation of the substructure (digging trenches, placement of conduit for electric, telephone, cable TV). This has been completed.

Phase 2. Cable Pulling. Utility companies to pull wire through underground conduits, installing transformers, and switch boxes. After installation, each utility to energize their facilities and begin "cutting over" individual properties from overhead to underground service.

During this period, property owners should have contacted an electrician to complete the house-to-street conduit installation by March 15, 2005. According to electrical permits filed for undergrounding by electricians/property owners of the Phase 2 District, 159 of 160 or 99% have complied. One (1) property owner ("holdout") has not.

According to DPW Utility Undergrounding Meeting Minutes of December 4, 2007, only 63 of the 160 (39%) have completed the next step of cutting over or energizing. CHN believes this has not been done, as property owners are not aware that they must contact PG&E, who will in turn schedule the cutting over with their electrician. In addition, the same must be done with Comcast and AT&T. If you are one of the homeowners who must take these next steps, see the contact information below or DPW may regard you as a holdout.

SEC. 919. FAILURE OF PROPERTY OWNER TO INSTALL CONDUITS.

In the event of failure on the part of a property owner to perform the required construction in accordance with the provisions of Section 917 within 30 days after receipt of a notice to provide such facilities, in order to permit completion of the service reconnection and the removal of the overhead wires and conductors by the Serving Company or Companies, the Director may order the disconnection and removal of any and all overhead electrical or other service wires or conductors supplying electrical or other service to such building or structure. In the event of such failure by the property owner to act, the Director may, at his discretion, perform the work required of property owners by Section 917, and is authorized to use and employ whatever labor, materials and devices may be necessary to effectually carry out the provisions of this Article. The total cost of the labor, materials and devices necessary for the performance of such work shall be paid by the owner of the building or structure for which such work was required. (Added by Ord. 139-72, App. 5/26/72; Ord. 140-07, File No. 070621, App. 6/22/2007) http://www.municode.com/Resources/gateway.asp?pid=14142&sid=5

Phase 3. Once all properties have been converted and are receiving their utilities underground, the overhead wires and the wooden utility poles will be removed.

What do I need to do?

Call one of the recommended electricians to complete your undergrounding if you have not yet complied. Currently 99% complete.
Call PG&E. Arthur Viray. 244-7054. Request that PG&E contact your electrician (contact information will be in their records) to arrange cutover or energizing. Currently 39% complete.
Call Comcast. Gino Graziani 503-4506. Comcast should schedule directly with you. Currently 22% complete.
Call AT&T. Dave Ohlessen 644-7040. You may be referred to Rick Tom at Smartech 650 758-2211. Currently 16% complete.