Xcel Energy replacing 12 blocks of power poles

Close to 12 total blocks are receiving new power poles in the southern section of Waseca as part of Xcel Energy’s initiative to replace power poles and update current services.  On behalf of Xcel Energy, engineer Zach Rogers and community relations manager Anna Theel reported to the Waseca city council on Tuesday, March 3 regarding the project. 

 

The first phase of this project, out in the Woodville township area, was completed last year. There won’t be any power increases, Rogers said, stating the lines will continue to deliver 69 kilovolts of energy. Regarding poles, he said they will be replaced “structure for structure, the majority of which will be wooden with some steel structures mixed in.” The original lines were installed in 1965.

 

Workers are currently removing and replacing structures along 139th street east of town towards 8th Street SE going north. With prep work visible from 5th Street SE to Johnson Ave SW, where it turns north from Johnson Ave along the west side of the train tracks past the Legion and Casey’s to the substation on 4th Ave SW across from Bird’s Eye, which Xcel shares with Waseca’s electric utility.

 

Rogers stated there are a few property easements that still need to be acquired or finalized, but he doesn’t believe that process will slow the project’s progress. Said Rogers, “Xcel has sent out letters to landowners within 100 feet of the route to inform them about the project.” There are around 58 parcels along the route that needed easements. Rogers believes construction should be complete in the summer. Restoration of yards and private property will take place in late summer to early fall.

 

Theel and Rogers stated they are open to receiving input or answering questions for any Waseca residents. Contact information includes: Anna Thill, Community Relations Manager for Xcel Energy 507-387-9633, Anna.M.Thill@xcelenergy.com. Zach Rogers, WSB Engineering and Consultant for Xcel Energy, 612-528-1380,  Zach.rogers@wsbeng.com. They encourage anyone with questions or concerns to give them a call.