Emeryville residents can expect a detour during their Tuesday commute as major street closures are set to hit Horton Street. According to an announcement by the City of Emeryville, Horton Street will be off-limits to traffic between 53rd and 46th Street on December 19 as contractors working for Pacific Gas & Electric Company, commonly known as PG&E, will be removing overhead power lines. This is part of the ongoing Horton undergrounding project to improve infrastructure and reliability.

The necessary closure spells a temporary inconvenience, with drivers urged to seek alternative routes to avoid getting stuck or delayed. The city's advisory, issued on December 14, suggests residents and visitors plan ahead before setting out on Tuesday. Efforts to proactively inform the community are in full swing, with official notifications posted online and signs expected to be erected in the affected areas.

PG&E has been working to incrementally replace overhead power lines with underground lines across several neighborhoods. This move is not only meant to reduce the frequency of power outages but also to significantly enhance the aesthetic appeal of the surrounding environment. By burying unsightly cables, views are unobstructed, and the potential for damage from inclement weather or unforeseen accidents is reduced.

The impact of such closures often extends beyond mere commuting challenges. Local businesses and the daily routines of residents are likely to be disrupted for a short while. Nonetheless, PG&E has affirmed that they are coordinating closely with the city to minimize disruptions and quickly restore full access. The hope is for the move to not only enrich the area once completed but also to ensure a more stable and secure electric service moving forward.