LYNCHBURG, Va. – Appalachian Power this week marked the completion of a multi-year project to improve electric service for downtown Lynchburg customers.
Appalachian Power worked with New River Electrical and Carolina Conduit to complete the multi-year project.
Much of the company’s underground equipment identified for upgrade had been in place for close to 100 years. Appalachian Power and business partners New River Electrical and Carolina Conduit replaced the aging system with new wire, transformers, concrete vaults, manholes and grates.
“The improvements will benefit downtown area customers now and in the future,” said Larry Jackson, external affairs director. “Our investment in new equipment and technology improves the quality and reliability of service, and also provides the foundation for future load growth in the downtown area, an important selling point for economic development.”
Crews worked along the 700 to 1100 blocks of Main Street, Seventh through 12th streets in the downtown Market area, as well Commerce and Church streets. Teams of workers installed new primary and secondary electrical cable, eight vaults and transformers, approximately 60 service boxes, duct banks and pad-mount switches. In addition, the company installed new streetlights and replaced cobblestone at the Ninth Street intersection.
Appalachian Power’s work was part of the Main Street Renewal Project, announced in partnership with Lynchburg City officials in mid-2018. While Appalachian Power upgraded its underground facilities, the city worked to install new waterlines and update sewer and storm water features. With work underway in the same vicinity, the Main Street Renewal Project was an effort to schedule and communicate the power company and city’s underground work to allow for greater efficiencies in planning, outreach, and construction.
“Our job required coordination on the part of our customers, the city and our crews,” said Ray Matherly, Appalachian Power’s on-site construction manager. “On behalf of our company, I want to thank the downtown community for their patience as we worked on this project. It was a team effort and I’m proud of our employees, business partners and safety record. We completed this project without any safety incidents, a testament to the commitment and dedication of everyone involved.”