I just had my service upgraded from 125A to 200A, as part of a solar install. My original equipment was right over the gas meter, and so the new box had to move outside the 36" range. My original (1966!) equipment was behind that door, but of course that won't fly nowadays.
I'm not sure if this helps or not, but this is at least an actual real world PG&E example of upgraded service, which was signed off by the inspector. You can see the cross over conduit that goes through the roof to the mast.
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Apologies in advance if this is not helpful, I did not read the full thread, and just thought a real world example might be helpful.
Thank your lucky stars you have overhead service from PG&E. Underground lift and shift is a swift kick in the nuts.