Morning Power Loss Hits Downtown Area

A mechanical failure left about 1,500 residents and merchants throughout Ventura’s downtown area without electricity for almost two hours Sunday morning.

Two back-to-back underground electrical explosions blew off a manhole cover at Figueroa Plaza near Santa Clara Avenue, Southern California Edison officials said. The force dislodged several 150-pound concrete tiles that covered the manhole.

After Ventura Fire Department firefighters detected flammable gas in the manhole, they evacuated Ramada Inn guests from the four rooms closest to the explosion.

The power outage affected residents and businesses from Ventura Avenue to Ann Street from 10:11 to 11:45 a.m.

Although the outage was quickly repaired, it did affect several downtown businesses. About 200 people were dining at the California 66 restaurant when the electricity went out.

“A lot of people didn’t even get their food and had to leave,” said bar manager Mike Tarall.

Owner Frank Parong said business has been declining since construction of the public parking garage next to the restaurant began in June. Sunday’s outage complicated financial matters even more, causing an estimated $1,500 loss on the day of the 21st annual Holiday Street Festival.

“This fair is one of our biggest days,” Parong said. “It was supposed to help us stay afloat at least this month. Today would have been worth about $4,000 to $5,000 and paid this month’s rent.”