Ridgewood NJ, The utility work planned for Saturday 9/17/16 at the W.Glen Ave underpass has been rescheduled. The underpass will be open on Saturday.
Other underground construction activities began on or about Monday September 19th, 2016 from approximately 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday – Friday. Construction activities include the installation of manholes and underground pipe. This work is expected to be complete in November 2016, weather permitting.
Our work locations are expected in the following locations:
– South Broad Street between Passaic Street and East Ridgewood Avenue – North Broad Street between East Ridgewood Avenue and Franklin Avenue – Franklin Avenue between North Broad Street and Chestnut Street – Franklin Avenue and Walnut Street Intersection
Safety is our primary concern. PSE&G will work with the Village of Ridgewood Police Department to minimize any traffic concerns or inconvenience to the public. At this time, we expect to have alternating traffic and/or detours near the locations listed above. During construction, please refrain from going near our construction work zones.
When in doubt, hang up and call the number listed on your bill
September 16,2016
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, Public Service Electric and Gas Company (PSE&G), New Jersey’s largest utility, is urging customers to be alert to scams demanding immediate bill payment via a pre-paid card.
“During the last several days, we’ve seen an uptick in the number of phone scams being reported,” said Greg Dunlap, vice president of Customer Operations for PSE&G. “Scammers can – and do – target anyone. But they tend to more often target small business customers, because they have larger bills than residential customers, but don’t have all of the checks and balances to prevent fraud that large business customers typically have.”
Here is how this latest payment scam works:
An individual pretending to be a PSE&G employee calls a customer and tells them that without immediate payment via a pre-paid card, their service will be shut off.
Customers are given a telephone number to call back after they have purchased the card. When they call that number, they hear interactive voice response prompts that imitate those they would hear when calling the real PSE&G customer service line.
When a fake representative answers the line, they ask for the number on the back of the pre-paid card. After the scammers have that number, they can take the money from the card – usually within a matter of minutes.
The only way to protect against these scams is for customers to be cautious when contacted by someone threatening service termination if they do not receive immediate payment via a pre-paid credit card. Before terminating service, PSE&G alerts customers in a number of ways: messages on their bill, letters and phone calls. The utility offers a number of payment options, and would never require a customer to use one specific type of payment.
“If you receive a call from anyone demanding immediate payment, do not give them any personal or account information,” said Dunlap. “Hang up the phone, and call the number listed on PSE&G’s website and bills: 1-800-436-PSEG (7734).”
Glen Rock NJ, For the second time in as many weeks, a contractor performing a utility pole replacement project for PSE&G on Lincoln Avenue in Glen Rock, struck an underground utility line, this time forcing the evacuation of a nearby office building. On 09/06, a water main was unintentionally ruptured. Today, Wednesday, 09/14, a gas line was accidentally struck. Glen Rock PD and FD units responded to the incident along with a crew from Hawthorne Fire Company #4. The office building, at 849 Lincoln Avenue, Glen Rock, was evacuated and remained so until a PSE&G crew shut off gas service and repaired the break. No injuries were reported in the mishap.
From the PSEG website;
Call Before You Dig
Whether you plan to plant a tree or new garden; put in a sprinkler system, mailbox post or fencing; install ground rods for electrical systems; or excavate for a home addition, you need to call beforehand to know where it’s safe to dig. For your own well-being and the safety of PSE&G’s underground pipes, cables and equipment, please “Call Before You Dig”. It’s the law.
Call Before You Dig Program: To request a FREE mark out of underground facilities, call 811 or 1-800-272-1000 at least three full business days before digging starts. This call will automatically notify utility operators to mark out underground utilities lines that include natural gas, water, cable, telephone and electric.
Wait the Required Time: Wait three full business days after calling before doing any digging. Underground utilities will be marked with paint, flags or stakes. If the site does not have underground utilities, you will be notified.
Note the Expiration Requirements: The mark out permission will expire after 45 calendar days. Digging must begin within 10 days after the original mark out was requested.
Respect the Marks: Always hand dig and locate underground utilities within two feet of marked lines.
Dig With Care: Making the call before you dig will help prevent property damage and potential injuries. Please be sure to dig safely.
If you accidentally damage gas piping or smell gas when excavating, please call 1-800-880-7734 (PSEG) immediately from a safe area.
Please review the damage prevention booklet that provides additional information on safe excavating practices and the protection of underground facilities.
For additional information covering damage prevention initiatives, check out the following websites:
New Jersey One Call: https://www.nj1-call.org
Common Ground Alliance (CGA): https://www.njcga.com
811 Call Before You Dig: https://www.call811.com
Ridgewood NJ, PSE&G will be starting underground construction on the PSE&G and public rights of way in your area. This construction is part of our upgrade initiative to ensure reliable electric service in the Village of Ridgewood, as well as surrounding communities.
Underground construction activities began on or about Monday September 19th, 2016 from approximately 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday – Friday. Construction activities include the installation of manholes and underground pipe. This work is expected to be complete in November 2016, weather permitting.
Our work locations are expected in the following locations:
– South Broad Street between Passaic Street and East Ridgewood Avenue – North Broad Street between East Ridgewood Avenue and Franklin Avenue – Franklin Avenue between North Broad Street and Chestnut Street – Franklin Avenue and Walnut Street Intersection
Safety is our primary concern. PSE&G will work with the Village of Ridgewood Police Department to minimize any traffic concerns or inconvenience to the public. At this time, we expect to have alternating traffic and/or detours near the locations listed above. During construction, please refrain from going near our construction work zones.
We apologize in advance for any inconvenience this work may cause. If you have any questions or concerns, please call our toll free number at 1-888-314-3332.
Ridgewood NJ, A dump truck became entangled in several utility wires on Thursday afternoon, 09/08 after its bed accidentally raised up while traveling eastbound on Grove Street near Stevens Avenue in Ridgewood. Cable TV, electric, and telephone services were interrupted to many nearby residences in the process. Two (2) passengers in the truck were trapped until firefighters and a PSE&G trouble shooter were able to confirm that their exit from the passenger compartment would present no life hazard. The truck’s driver had safely exited prior to the arrival of emergency responders. Grove Street was closed in both directions between South Pleasant Avenue and South Van Dien Avenue for several hours following the crash. The truck was able to drive away on its own power after cables were removed by cable TV, electric, and telephone company technicians. No injuries were reported in the incident. Ridgewood PD issued eight (8) summonses in connection with the mishap.
Glen Rock NJ, A crew working for PSE&G that was setting new utility poles on Lincoln Avenue in Glen Rock struck and ruptured a water main near Cornelia Place on Tuesday afternoon, 09/06. Traffic on Lincoln Avenue in both directions was disrupted while personnel from Ridgewood Water repaired the leak and the utility company resumed work setting poles. No injuries were reported in the incident. Hawthorne PD officers provided traffic control during the disruption.
Ridgewood NJ, The Village of Ridgewood, in an effort to expidite the conclusion of this project and to minimize traffic interference, has met with PSE&G and has agreed to allow working on Saturdays to expedite the upgrade project.
Saturday work takes place generally from 7am to 5pm; with some need to mobilize in advance to be ready to work. PSEG has brought in extra manpower and will be working on Saturdays into the 3rd week of September.
Hawthorne NJ, Localized power outages occurred when a large evergreen tree fell in front of 70 Watchung Drive, Hawthorne on Saturday morning, 07/30. Portions of Watchung Drive were impassable for over two (2) hours. Electric power was restored by PSE&G crews after a tree service removed the fallen tree. There appeared to have been no damage to the home at 70 Watchung Drive. Hawthorne PD responded to the incident.
Ridgewood NJ, PSE&G work in Ridgewood is causing major traffic impact for the Ridgewood and makes the central business district almost inaccessible.
As previously posted on this blog a Traffic Alert “beginning Friday 7/8/16 W.Glen Ave will be closed between Oak Street and Upper Boulevard while PSE&G continues their gas main replacement project from 7am to 4pm Monday through Friday for approximately 2 weeks as the crew works through the train trestle. This will have an impact on traffic traveling west and east through Ridgewood. Traffic will be diverted to the Franklin Ave Underpass for cars. Trucks will be diverted to Wyckoff Ave in Waldwick due to height restrictions. Officers will be deployed to critical intersections to assist the traffic flow. Please plan an alternate route if possible.”
On Tuesday afternoon traffic is backed up on Oak Street in front of the “Y”, Franklin ave , West Ridgewood Ave and Godwin.
Clearly in case of an emergency valuable time would be lost with the trestle being impassable . Perhaps its time to reopen the “traffic easing ” and face facts that the idea was an ill conceived total failure because in the best of circumstances it blocks off the CBD, ties up traffic at the trestle, and backs traffic up West Ridgewood all the way to Midland Park , All because of a “suicide” bike lane installed for people with death wishes.
As you know, PSE&G is working in Ridgewood on a significant effort to replace gas mains enhancing service to our residents. (Please see attached PSE&G flyer for more details and explanation of the project.) The recent work that has been done on and around Glen Ave. to date has involved partial shutdown of streets and detours that have resulted in some traffic delays.
Starting tomorrow – Friday, July 8th – W. Glen Ave. will be closed between Oak St. and Upper Blvd. from 7am to 4pm Monday through Friday for approximately 2 weeks. This will have an impact on traffic traveling west and east through Ridgewood (see map below). Traffic will be diverted to the Franklin Ave. underpass for cars. Trucks will be diverted to Wyckoff Ave. in Waldwick due to height restrictions.
It is very possible that we will see some significant delays in the Garber Square area including the feeder streets of W. Ridgewood Ave., Franklin Ave. and Godwin Ave. area due to this detour. I would encourage residents to try alternate routes, for example using the underpass near the intersection of Ackerman Ave./Broad St.
Approximately six police officers, hired and paid for by PSE&G, will be deployed to critical intersections to assist the traffic flow. Thankfully, we are in the midst of summer where traffic is generally lighter, but I wanted to give you this heads-up so that perhaps you can plan around this construction work. I appreciate your understanding and patience while we get through this public utility improvement.
Best,
Roberta Sonenfeld
Village Manager
201-670-5500, ext. 203
RIDGEWOOD LIBRARY COOLING CENTER – PSE&G PREPARED FOR THIS WEEKS HOT WEATHER
July 7,2016
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, Ridgewood Public Library will be available to provide a cool environment to residents. It is open to the public Thursday 9 – 9; Friday 9 – 6; Saturday 9 – 5; Sunday 1 – 5.
Ridgewood Professional Firefighters FMBA Local 47
Be aware and cautious if working or playing outside for an extended period of time today and until the current heat wave ends. If you feel any of the symptoms, call for help
PSE&G: With temperatures expected to be in the 90s this week, PSE&G is monitoring weather conditions and has additional personnel on hand to handle any power interruptions as a result of the high temperatures. Our call centers also have extra personnel on duty to speak with customers, and additional appliance service technicians are scheduled to assist with central air conditioner repairs.
We prepare for summer all year long by replacing and reinforcing electric circuits and other equipment, using helicopters to inspect our high-voltage transmission lines, and conducting employee training and summer readiness drills. Although we expect to have no problem delivering the additional power our customers will need to stay cool, we are keeping a close eye on the weather and will have the personnel on hand to respond to any outages.
To report power outages or downed wires, call PSE&G’s Customer Service line at 1-800-436-PSEG (7734). You can also report outages online by logging into My Account at pseg.com. To report power outages via text message, and receive outage updates by text and email, sign up for MyAlerts. Our mobile-friendly website includes an “Outage Map” that is updated every 15 minutes and displays the location and status of power outages in PSE&G’s service area.
If experiencing difficulties with central air conditioning units or other appliances, PSE&G customers can schedule a WorryFree** repair service appointment online by logging in to My Account, or calling 1-800-436-PSEG.
Here are a few easy and inexpensive ways you can save energy and money:
Turn off everything you’re not using: lights, computers, etc. Use dimmers, timers and motion detectors on indoor and outdoor lighting.
Close blinds and shades facing the sun to keep the sun’s heat out and help fans and air conditioners cool more efficiently.
Close doors leading to uncooled areas. With central air, close off vents to unused rooms.
Washington Twp, A large limb fell from a tree located near the intersection of Washington Avenue and Van Emburgh Avenue in Washington Township on Wednesday afternoon, 06/22, igniting a significant brush fire, snapping a utility pole, knocking out electric, cable and telephone service to several homes, and closing a portion of Washington Avenue for an extended period. Washington Township PD, FD, and EMS units responded to the incident. Traffic control assistance related to the road closure was provided by HoHoKus PD units. PSE&G and Cablevision crews were also observed working in the area.
10 Easy and Inexpensive Ways for Village Residents to Save on Electric Bills
June 20,2016
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, On the first official day of summer, Public Service Electric & Gas (PSE&G), New Jersey’s largest utility, reminds customers that higher temperatures can also lead to more usage and higher electric bills. Customers can save energy and money this summer by following a few easy and inexpensive tips.
Seal holes and cracks around doors and windows with insulation or weather-stripping.
Don’t cool an empty house. Set your thermostat higher when you are away.
Don’t cool unused rooms. Close the vents and shut the door.
Ceiling fans cool fast and cost less than air conditioning.
Operate appliances in the morning or evening when it is cooler outside.
When washing dishes or clothes, run full loads.
Wash laundry in cold water.
Close blinds and draperies facing the sun to keep out the sun’s heat.
Replace air filters monthly. Dirty filters make your air conditioner work harder.
Use a microwave or crockpot instead of the oven. They won’t heat the house.
Prepared for Additional Power Demand
PSE&G expects to have no problem delivering the additional power required during the hot-weather months, but utility crews will be ready to respond to service interruptions should they occur. PSE&G’s rigorous, year-round preparedness program for summer includes conducting employee training; developing emergency summer operating plans; performing summer peak reliability analysis; helicopter and climbing inspections of transmission circuits; infrared inspections for “hot-spots” on transmission lines; and system reinforcements and transmission line work.
Payment Assistance Available
If your energy bills become unmanageable, a number of payment assistance programs are available for low and moderate income customers, as well as senior citizens and people with disabilities. Also, PSE&G offers customers the option of setting up a no-cost, equal payment plan. More information on these programs can be found atwww.pseg.com/help.
How to Report an Outage and Stay Informed
To report downed wires or power outages, call PSE&G’s Customer Service line at 1-800-436-PSEG. Also, customers can report outages online by logging into My Account at pseg.com or by texting “OUT” to 4PSEG (47734). The utility’s mobile-friendly website includes an “Outage Map” that is updated every 15 minutes and displays the location and status of power outages in PSE&G’s service area.
Ridgewood NJ, Ridgewood Police are reporting that a Black Bear was spotted eating garbage from the garbage can of a Grove Street residence along the PSE&G right of way on the Glen Rock border at 3:30pm. The bear then disappeared into the wooded area that backs up to the Ridgewood sewage treatment plant.
Black bears by nature tend to be wary of people. However, if you encounter a black bear in your neighborhood or outdoors while hiking or camping, follow these common-sense safety tips.
Do not feed bears! Never feed or approach a bear!
Remain calm if you encounter a bear. Do not run from it.
Make the bear aware of your presence by speaking in an assertive voice, singing, clapping your hands, or making other noises.
Make sure the bear has an escape route.
If a bear enters your home, provide it with an escape route by propping all doors open.
Avoid direct eye contact, which may be perceived by a bear as a challenge. Never run from a bear. Instead, slowly back away.
To scare the bear away, make loud noises by yelling, banging pots and pans or using an airhorn. Make yourself look as big as possible by waving your arms. If you are with someone else, stand close together with your arms raised above your head.
The bear may utter a series of huffs, make popping jaw sounds by snapping its jaws and swat the ground. These are warning signs that you are too close. Slowly back away, avoid direct eye contact and do not run.
If a bear stands on its hind legs or moves closer, it may be trying to get a better view or detect scents in the air. It is usually not a threatening behavior.
Black bears will sometimes “bluff charge” when cornered, threatened or attempting to steal food. Stand your ground, avoid direct eye contact, then slowly back away and do not run.
If the bear does not leave, move to a secure area.
Black bear attacks are extremely rare. If a black bear does attack, fight back!
If you observe the bear please call the Ridgewood Police 201-652-3900.
Ridgewood NJ, Beginning in May 2016, PSE&G will be working in Ridgewood to replace approximately 2 miles of aging cast iron gas pipes with new, durable plastic and/or coated steel piping – ensuring the continued safety and reliability of our gas system well into the future.
Work will take place Monday through Saturday between the hours of 7 a.m. and 4 p.m., conditions permitting. The gas main replacement portion of the work is expected to be complete in August 2016. The paving and street restoration is expected to be completed in October 2016.
Below are the streets where work will take place:
Streets , between streets and private right aways
E Glen Avenue -Sterling Place
E Glen Avenue- Kensington Drive
Glenwood Road
Hillcrest Road
Brookside Avenue
W Glen Avenue
N Monroe Street
Railroad Tracks
E Glen Avenue
N Monroe Street
N Maple Avenue
Lawrence Court
Heights Road
W Glen Avenue
Lawrence Court
Alpine Terrace
Phelps Road
W Glen Avenue
Colwell Court- Alpine Terrace
Douglas Place
Chestnut Street
Oak Street
Park Slope
Madison Place
Monte Vista Avenue
What are the benefits of the new pipes?
These upgrades are part of our three-year program to replace up to 510 miles of aging gas infrastructure throughout New Jersey. The new pipes will improve reliability, reduce the possibility of methane leaks, and enable the installation of excess flow valves on service lines. These valves dramatically reduce gas flow if a pipe is damaged. The elevated pressure of the new gas mains will also provide better support for high-efficiency appliances like furnaces and water heaters.
What will the work look like?
Before construction can start, the utility tests soil and digs test holes to verify the location of existing gas mains. When this preliminary work is complete, PSE&G will begin installing the new gas mains and upgrading associated service lines that carry the gas to homes and businesses.
To upgrade the gas pipes, PSE&G crews will dig trenches, primarily in road surfaces, and lay new pipes block by block, so we can limit the impacted areas on any given day. There will be short-term road closures and detours during construction. Local police will direct vehicle and pedestrian traffic. At the end of each workday, the trenches will be filled in, and plates secured, on any open areas so people can safely drive and walk.
After the new gas mains are installed, PSE&G will need to access customers’ homes to connect their service lines and meter. PSE&G will contact homeowners to arrange a date and time to do the connections. During this work, customers will be without gas service for approximately four hours. We regret any inconvenience this may cause. Any lawn areas, shrubs or other vegetation affected by our work will be restored. Grass areas will be raked and seeded.
In most cases, PSE&G will be able to install the new pipes without excavation. Lawn areas, shrubs or other vegetation affected by the work will be restored. Grass areas will be raked and seeded.
PSE&G crews will use work area protection including traffic cones, utility work signs, and barriers to ensure the job is done safely. The utility reminds motorists to slow down and follow detour signs when driving through the construction area.
How will roads be restored?
PSE&G repairs roads with temporary pavement until the ground settles. This takes about 45 to 90 days, depending on the weather and soil conditions. PSE&G then restores the roads with permanent paving in accordance with town ordinance and paving requirements.
If you have any questions or concerns, please call Oakland gas district office at 201-337-2519. Once the work has started, you may also speak to the supervisor on the job site.
