Representative Napoleon Nelson announced today that his office received an update from PECO regarding a four-stage electric upgrade project in Cheltenham Township, Abington Township and Jenkintown Borough.

“According to PECO, phases two and three are complete and almost all of the work for phase one is done. Construction to finish phase one is set to start in January 2026,” Rep. Nelson said in a post. “PECO anticipates starting on phase four, in LATE October of 2025, in Cheltenham. Prior to any work starting on your street, PECO will distribute a door hanger to let you know when work will begin. All lane closures will be clearly marked.”

Construction will be Monday through Friday from 8:00am – 5:00pm.

The work began in December 2024 and is part of a $58 million infrastructure project. New conduit and underground cable are being installed for electric service along Paxson Avenue, South Avenue, Glenside Avenue, Chelten Hills Drive, Old York Road, and Stahr Road in Cheltenham Township.

From PECO’s overview of the project:

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.

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