Fort to PSC: Study state’s pipeline infrastructure

ATLANTA — A state senator is asking the Public Service Commission to study the safety of the state’s gas pipeline infrastructure.

“I urge you to initiate a safety study of natural gas pipelines in Georgia as soon as possible,” state Sen. Vincent Fort, D-Atlanta, wrote in a letter to Commissioner Chuck Eaton. “The study should involve the types of pipelines installed, the age of pipelines, and the need to replace pipelines as is occurring in other states, among other things.”

Fort asked for the study in the wake of a gas pipeline explosion last week in San Bruno, Calif.

“Since 1990, more than 2,800 gas pipeline accidents have been reported with over a third causing death,” Fort wrote. “As you know, the issue of natural gas pipeline safety has become critical in my district since Georgia Power is placing a 36 inch natural gas pipeline in the heart of many neighborhoods. It is important that we determine the safety of pipelines in order to protect the citizens of Georgia.”