Lawmakers Push for Burial of Power Lines in Providence

News Summary

Lawmakers in Providence and East Providence are reconsidering the burial of power lines along waterfront areas after years of discussions. A recent House committee session explored legislation aimed at removing overhead lines in India Point Park and Bold Point Park, with an estimated cost of $19.3 million. Funded by an old utility credit, residents may face additional costs to finance the project. Both city councils support the initiative, aiming to enhance aesthetics and economic development despite concerns over scenic views along I-195. The funding gap of $7 million remains a challenge.

Providence, Rhode Island – Lawmakers are revisiting the issue of burying power lines along the waterfront areas of East Providence and Providence after years of deliberation. A recent session held by a House committee discussed legislation designed to facilitate the burial of overhead power lines specifically in two locations: Fox Point and India Point.

The legislation aims to remove the existing power lines that currently run through India Point Park in Providence and Bold Point Park in East Providence. The total estimated cost for this construction project is approximately $19.3 million, which involves not only the burial of power lines but also the potential enhancement of economic development and the aesthetic appeal of waterfront areas on both sides of the river.

Funding for the project would primarily come from an old utility credit that has been accruing interest over time. East Providence Mayor Bob DaSilva noted that residents could face an additional cost of $32 over three years to finance the project. Meanwhile, Providence Mayor Brett Smiley indicated that residents in his area might expect an additional charge of $2 per month for three years. Any remaining costs after utilizing the utility credit would potentially be shared between the two cities or passed on to utility ratepayers, pending approval by the Public Utilities Commission.

The proposal has gained support from both city councils, with the Providence City Council endorsing it in February. Rhode Island Energy has also committed to exploring other funding options, including federal grants, to address the financial requirements of the project. As of now, there is a $7 million funding gap that needs to be resolved before the project can proceed.

In related feedback, residents have expressed concerns about the potential impact on scenic views along I-195 due to the presence of electrical towers. David Riley from Friends of India Point Park has indicated that maintaining these views is a priority for many community members. Although the exact timeline for project completion remains unclear, it is expected to span multiple years.

The proposed legislation also includes provisions that would allow Rhode Island Energy to apply surplus funds from each city towards financing the project, potentially easing the burden on residents.

Additionally, officials have confirmed that the ongoing Washington Bridge project is not expected to interfere with the power line relocation plans, as the lines will continue to remain above ground in that specific area. Following the testimony session, the committee has opted to defer the bill for further study, taking into consideration both in-person and written testimonies presented by concerned citizens and stakeholders.

In conclusion, the deliberations surrounding the burial of power lines in East Providence and Providence signal a renewed commitment to enhancing safety and aesthetics in the region’s waterfront areas. As the legislation moves forward, continued discussions and evaluations of the proposed project will determine its feasibility and impact on local communities.

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• Turn to 10 News
• Google Search: bury power lines Providence
• WPRI
• Wikipedia: Utility undergrounding
• What’s Up Newp
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Electric Utility
• Turn to 10 News
• Google News: Rhode Island power outages