For More Information Contact:
Lance Robertson, 984-4716
Eugene Water & Electric Board

Nov. 30, 2006

Crews begin 13th, 16th avenue power line upgrades

Eugene Water & Electric Board crews have begun a project to upgrade the electrical distribution system for customers served by power lines that run down portions of East 13th Avenue and 16th Avenue.

The work is part of EWEB’s stepped-up effort to improve electric power reliability throughout the city.

The project involves replacing wires, poles and other equipment along East 13th Avenue, between Pearl and Alder streets. Similar work also will be done to the electric system along 16th Avenue, between Olive and Pearl streets. EWEB also will be installing an underground “intertie” to connect the Willamette and Jefferson substations, which will provide a higher level of electric service reliability to the neighborhoods served by those substations. The work should be completed by the end of January.

EWEB will have to shut off power to most businesses and residences from four to eight hours on a designated weekend day to complete the work along each block in a safe and efficient manner. Customers are being notified in advance of any planned outages. Some lanes of traffic or street parking along 13th and 16th avenues may be restricted at times.