Washington Gas and Gas Leaks in Georgetown -- FYI

Passed on to me by good neighbor David Abrams about an apparent pattern of Washington Gas issues in the East Village of Georgetown. I'm familiar with some of these issues, and the ongoing cutting into the streets, even in front of my house. It is worthy of concern, because the utilities typically resist being forthcoming. Posting for all who may be interested.

Dear Georgetown Neighbor,

Out of a growing sense of frustration and concern over the Washington Gas Light Co. and gas-related issues in our neighborhood, I’ve launched both a blog and Facebook page about Georgetown gas leaks and repairs that you can also access at Georgetown Leaks & Repairs,  and a Facebook page, too. The sites include links to resources and news stories about natural gas leaks in Washington, DC, how to recognize gas leaks, and what to do if you smell gas.

Disturbing Pattern. There seems to a perpetual cycle of reported gas leaks, so-called repairs, and new reports of gas leaks where I live on the 2800 block of O Street. One neighbor said that the cycle has been going on for the 40 years she has lived on our street. Others have complained about the questionable way gas meters were installed at their houses, how sidewalks have been torn up for months because of uncompleted repairs, and about the smell of gas which has never been permanently addressed.

Too Many Horror Stories. Unfortunately, there are too many horror stories in the Washington area and across the country about what can happen if gas leaks go undetected or are ignored. One example is the 2010 gas line explosion in San Bruno, California, a suburb of San Francisco. The explosion created a 50-foot fireball, destroyed dozens of homes, and killed eight people.

Call to Action. In the hope that our public officials, the media, and others in our community will take an active and serious interest in the gas-related issues facing our neighborhood, I’m asking that you share with me any issues or concerns you’ve had with the gas company that I will package and present to the authorities. If you do not wish to post your comments on the blogs, please send a confidential message to me at the email address below.

Sincerely,

Edward Segal
2807 O Street, NW
[email protected]
415-218-8600