PECO contractors will begin installing new conduit and underground cable for electric service along Paxson Avenue, South Avenue, Glenside Avenue, Chelten Hills Drive, Old York Road, and Stahr Road in Cheltenham Township beginning Monday, December 30 and ending in mid-September 2025.
The work is part of a $58 million infrastructure project which involves the following areas:
From PECO’s announcement:
PECO is investing $58 million in Cheltenham Township, Abington Township, Jenkintown Borough, and Philadelphia as part of our proactive efforts to enhance the local electric distribution system for you and your neighbors. We will replace all wires, cables, poles, devices, and transformers on the circuits associated with the Elkins Park Substation, which will be retired following this work. In addition, new aerial devices called reclosers will be installed. When a problem occurs, like a fallen tree limb or a lightning strike, the recloser stops the flow of electricity on the line and automatically restores electricity where possible.
Poles will be replaced on the existing pole line to meet current industry standards—they will be taller than current poles. PECO is following current National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) standards for this project and as such, greater clearances are required. Tree and vegetation clearance distances are based on tree species and types of electrical equipment and are aligned with industry standards for maintaining safe and reliable electric service.
Additionally, there will be underground work associated with the project which entails installation or replacement of underground cable, new duct banks and potential manholes. This project requires vegetation work in Cheltenham Township, Abington Township, Jenkintown Borough, and in parts of Philadelphia. Tree trimming and removal promotes reliability and safety by ensuring proper clearance and minimizing vegetation that could potentially cause a power outage.
Their letter from earlier this month is below:
You can also read their letter from October 30, 2023:
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