Residents in a Ronkonkoma neighborhood say they're dealing with an ongoing gas leak, even as National Grid says the issue is minor.

For nearly a year, neighbors near University Drive say they've been smelling the odor of gas.

"For months we've been calling National Grid about it. A couple of times I thought it was the barbecue on, but it's not," says resident Kaitlyn Sheehan.

She and a few of her neighbors are worried that a leaking gas valve could pose a danger. They say they routinely open up its cover and pour water over it to see if there's a leak -- and bubbles indicate that gas is leaking out.

News 12 reached out to National Grid for comment. A rep for the utility called it a "redundant leak," saying, "It's a minor leak, away from residential homes and properties. The crews survey and reassess and are currently working to resolve the leak and will continue to monitor."

The valve that neighbors pointed to is just feet away from residential homes on a cul-de-sac.

Sheehan says she's seen National Grid crews in the area, but says that's not enough. She wants the leak fixed.

"I actually asked the worker yesterday at National Grid, if someone were to park over the valve if it's potentially dangerous. He said absolutely, just the right amount of heat and gas could easily blow it up," Sheehan says. "Somebody could drive down and flick a cigarette, and boom."

National Grid says the valve is surveyed on a planned schedule.