PSE begins installation of new transmission line to area substations

Independent staff report

Puget Sound Energy recently began construction above existing electric distribution lines in Port Orchard in an effort to improve electric reliability in the area.

PSE will work through May to construct a new transmission line — carrying high-voltage electricity from power generation sources to substations in the community — above existing lines along Mitchell Avenue, Southeast Mile Hill Drive, Baby Doll Road and Collins Road East.

The new transmission line will go a long way in improving service for area customers and meeting growing demand, said PSE representative Gretchen Alibadi.

“The main reason is reliablity,” Alibadi said. “It’s a better system.”

Construction of the line running between the East Port Orchard and Manchester substations will entail replacing utility poles along the route with taller poles and installing the new transmission wire.

The addition of the new line will create a “loop”, meaning the substations will be fed by two transmission lines instead of just one.

The work will take place from Mondays through Fridays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturdays from approximately 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Traffic delays in areas along Mile Hill Drive should be expected, and signs and flaggers will help direct traffic.

The transmission line project is one of three projects PSE has initiated in the past few years to upgrade the electric system serving the area.

For more information about the project, visit www.PSE.com/KitsapCounty.

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