Operator of gas pipeline gets approval for testing

PHOENIX -- The operator of a gasoline pipeline that was shut down for safety reasons was given permission Tuesday to begin testing the line, said a spokesman for the U.S. Department of Transportation.

The pipeline between Phoenix and Tucson ruptured July 30, spilling about 12,000 gallons of fuel. Kinder Morgan Energy Partners of Houston shut it down Aug. 8 because of concerns that there could be more problems.

There are no gasoline refineries in Arizona so all the fuel must be delivered through pipelines operated by Kinder Morgan. One pipeline that brings gasoline from California remains in operation.

A call to Kinder Morgan was not immediately returned Tuesday.

Gov. Janet Napolitano is urging Phoenix-area motorists to not guzzle up the city's limited gas supply.

"Please do not hoard," Napolitano said. "Think of your fellow citizens."

On Monday, drivers found stations with the pumps blocked off by yellow caution tape, or with lines that stretched a block or more. One gas station attendant called police because some patrons were getting upset and others were cutting in line.

Everywhere, prices hovered around $2 a gallon.

Judy Bergeron searched for three hours and stopped at five stations before she found gas.

"I never knew that gas was going to seem like gold," said Bergeron, who waited 45 minutes at her final stop.