Gasoline Detected in Ventura Storm Drain Following Recent Heavy Rains

The Pierpont neighborhood in Ventura is once again dealing with the fallout from an underground fuel leak after city officials detected gasoline in the storm drain system. The contamination was discovered on January 5, 2026, at the intersection of Pierpont Boulevard and Monmouth Way. Residents had initially reported strong gasoline odors in the area, prompting an immediate investigation by city public works crews and specialized environmental contractors.

Link to Previous Harbor Sinclair Leak

Preliminary findings suggest that this latest incident is not the result of a new spill. Instead, city officials believe the gasoline is associated with a massive leak that occurred at the Harbor Sinclair gas station in September 2024. During that original event, approximately 2,300 gallons of fuel seeped into the soil and sewer lines. It appears that the recent record breaking rainfall in Ventura caused the local groundwater levels to rise, which in turn pushed the legacy contamination into the storm drain pipes.

Experts believe the shifting groundwater interacted with the storm drain lining, causing it to move and create a gap where the contaminated water could enter. The city was quick to clarify that the gasoline was found only in the storm drain and has not affected the drinking water or the wastewater sewer systems. To prevent the fuel from spreading to nearby beaches or waterways, the city has installed temporary containment measures and catch basins to pump out the impacted water.

Remediation Efforts and Road Closures

While the immediate threat has been contained, the remediation process for the Harbor Sinclair site remains an ongoing challenge. As of late 2025, over 830 gallons of gasoline had already been vacuumed out of monitoring wells in the area. The gas station owner, Neda Oil, has repaired the original defective piping and upgraded their leak detection systems, but the environmental cleanup of the surrounding soil could take months or even years to complete.

Monmouth Way remains a focal point for the city as crews prepare for a significant wastewater pipe replacement project scheduled to begin in early 2026. This project aims to modernize the infrastructure and provide a more permanent barrier against groundwater intrusion. Until that work is finished, the city will continue daily monitoring of vapor levels and groundwater quality to ensure the safety of the Pierpont community. Residents are encouraged to report any persistent chemical smells to the Ventura Water customer care line.