Connecticut Light & Power (CL&P), part of Northeast Utilities, broke ground on Sept. 26, 2011, on a 2.7-mile transmission line upgrade on an existing utility right-of-way between West Center Street and Burnham Street in Manchester. Once complete, this project will improve reliability of electric service to customers while reinforcing the electric transmission grid in southern New England.

“This upgrade will help strengthen the central Connecticut area’s electric transmission system and ensure its compliance with federally mandated reliability standards,” said David Boguslawski, NU’s vice president of Transmission Strategy & Operations.

This $28.8 million upgrade consists of constructing a new 345-kV transmission line on steel monopoles, reconfiguring an existing 345-kV line, and modifying the Manchester substation.

Construction activities for the project include site preparation, structure foundation installation, structure placement and wire installation. Construction will occur in phases and will not be continuous in any one area. Construction is expected to be completed in late 2013.

Some of the work will occur near the Hockanum River. CL&P will protect the environment by taking special care and using protective measures to minimize the effect of work on this unique habitat.