Update, 3:18 p.m.: PG&E spokesman Joe Molica said the contractor that caused a gas leak in the Crestmoor neighborhood was not following proper rules when the gas distribution line was ruptured.
The contractor, which hasn't yet been identified, was installing a water line as part of the city's ongoing reconstruction work taking place in the neighborhood and struck the 2-inch plastic pipe with a backhoe.
By law, Molica said, a backhoe is not supposed to be used in areas with gas pipelines underground. Contractors are supposed to call 8-1-1 before digging underground. Excavation damage caused by third-party contractors is one of the leading causes of pipeline accidents, according to the National Transportation Safety Board.
"It just shows the absolute important of calling before you dig and ensuring that you're working safely," Molica said.
Fourteen homes in the neighborhood had to be evacuated because of the gas leak, but gas service wasn't interrupted, Molica said.
PG&E crews have been working to repair the ruptured gas line and are expected to finish by 4 p.m., Molica said.
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A contractor working in the Crestmoor neighborhood ruptured a 2-inch gas line this morning, prompting an evacuation of residents in the area.
A backhoe struck the plastic pipeline near Glenview Drive and Earl Avenue, the same location where the , at about 10:45 a.m., said PG&E spokesman Joe Molica.
PG&E crews quickly responded and capped the gas leak by 11:25 a.m., Molica said. Workers and residents in the immediate area were briefly evacuated while the leak was capped.
It is not clear whether gas service to customers in the neighborhood was interrupted, Molica said.
According to PG&E's Twitter account, crews are working with first responders at the scene now to further assess the situation.
Bay City News Service contributed to this story.
