Engineering firm tapped to probe Baltimore’s underground utility fires
Baltimore has hired engineering firm RTI to investigate the cause of a series of underground fires that have damaged subsurface utility systems and raised safety concerns in the city’s downtown area.
According to CBS News, the review follows a June 28 underground fire at the intersection of Baltimore Street and Guilford Avenue, where Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE) reported extensive steam-related damage. The incident was the third underground fire in the downtown area in the past 18 months.
City officials and representatives from multiple agencies—including the fire department, public works, transportation, emergency management, BGE, and telecommunications providers—recently met to discuss potential causes and mitigation strategies. Fire officials said damaged wiring and utility cables have been common factors in recent incidents.
BGE cited aging conduit materials, including terracotta and Orangeburg pipe, as a possible contributor, noting that heat, moisture, and steam can weaken insulation and trigger failures, CBS News reported. The utility is investing more than $120 million over four years under a 2023 settlement agreement to upgrade the city’s conduit system.
Officials said the engineering review will help identify infrastructure vulnerabilities and guide future improvements aimed at reducing the risk of additional underground fires and improving public safety.
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