American Transmission Co., Wisconsin, will soon begin work on the existing transmission line that runs alongside US Hwy. 41 between the Sunset Point Substation, located in the town of Oshkosh, and the Ellinwood Substation, located in the City of Oshkosh.

“The upgraded transmission line will improve electric reliability in the Fox Valley,” said David Hovde, ATC local relations. “We will do our best to keep disruptions to a minimum along Hwy. 41 as we complete the project.”

The work consists of replacing six structures with steel poles on concrete foundations, as well as adding another six new steel poles. In addition, ATC will also be adding a second circuit (i.e, a second set of wires) on the remaining structures on the existing line by replacing the steel “arms” to these structures. This will accommodate the second circuit that will be placed on the 3.8-mile line along Hwy. 41 and across a portion of Lake Butte des Morts. The steel poles need to be replaced to meet newly required height clearances. There will also be some construction activities inside the two substations.

There will be a few periodic lane closures and diversions along Koeller Street to accommodate the construction vehicles and work taking place during the project. The appropriate traffic control procedures, warning and directional signage, and other safety measures will be in place to alert drivers about any lane closures.

This project should be complete, and the facilities placed in service by mid-December 2007.