HomeLocal governmentGRU gas line pressure test will close Archer Road near Shands Hospital overnight on Sunday

GRU gas line pressure test will close Archer Road near Shands Hospital overnight on Sunday

April 2, 2025

Press release from Gainesville Regional Utilities

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Gainesville Regional Utilities (GRU) will conduct a routine pressure test of the natural gas pipeline in coordination with Duke Energy. This required maintenance will take place over two days and will involve temporary road closures, loud noises, natural gas burn-off, and the potential for a noticeable gas odor. 

Test Schedule and Impact

  • Saturday, April 5, at 7 a.m.: Natural gas burn-off begins using two flare stacks to reduce odor and prepare the pipeline for testing.
  • Sunday, April 6, from 2 a.m. to 7 a.m.: Road closures and detours in effect.
  • Sunday, April 6, at 5 a.m.: Nitrogen blow-off will produce a loud noise, approximately 120 decibels (similar to a jet engine) lasting 45 minutes to an hour.

Road Closures and Detours (map attached)

  • Archer Road: Closed from SW 16th Street through SW 16th Avenue.
  • Mowry Road: Closed between Gale Lemerand Drive and Center Drive.
  • Vehicle, bicycle and pedestrian traffic will be detoured during the test.
  • Access Restrictions: Limited access to UF Health west parking garage (Parking Garage III), Davis Cancer Pavilion Medical Plaza east parking lot, and the north drive behind the Davis Cancer Center. 

Public Safety and Background

This test is a routine maintenance procedure required by the Public Service Commission and is conducted every six years to ensure the integrity of the natural gas infrastructure. The process is carefully controlled and does not pose any risk to public safety. Residents and businesses in the area should be aware of the following: 

  • The nitrogen blow-off will produce a very loud sound (approximately 120 decibels).
  • A rotten egg-like odor may be present due to the controlled release of natural gas. 

GRU’s Natural Gas Department, in collaboration with Duke Energy, will oversee the test, while the University of Florida Police Department and Gainesville Police Department will assist with traffic control. 

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