PG&E upgrades set for west of town

Pacific Gas and Electric Co. reported utility crews will start work next week on a project west of Corning to upgrade the electric system.

PG&E crews will install more than 10,000 feet of high-voltage power lines and replace 30 wooden utility poles with all new equipment to help reduce both the number and duration of power outages for about 2,600 customers from west Corning to Paskenta.

Work will occur primarily along Simpson Road between Blatchley and Freeman Schoolhouse roads. Traffic controls will be minimal along the rural road but necessary at times so crews can work safely. PG&E crews will generally work between 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. weekdays. The upgrades are expected to be completed in April.