From August to December 2015, Utilities Kingston will replace poles in the Polson Park neighbourhood that have reached their end of life. View a map of the affected area.

These poles are primarily located in backyards. We are conducting this work on behalf of your electricity distributor, Kingston Hydro Corporation, in collaboration with the owner of the poles, Bell Canada. This article provides information to help prepare for potential interruptions that may result from this planned work.

The hydro lines will still run along the same corridors. The following highlights some of the planned work:

• In some sections, high voltage overhead lines will be removed from backyards.
• Overall, the number of transformers will be reduced in the area, and transformers in backyards will be eliminated. New transformers will be installed in more accessible locations (public right-of-ways and street-side).
• Overall, the number of poles will be reduced. Emphasis will be placed on reducing the number of poles located on private property and moving them to accessible right-of-ways and streets.
• The new poles will be stronger and slightly taller, and the power lines will be moved up higher.

All of this work will provide the following benefits:

• Provide significantly better access for power line workers, trucks and equipment to key hydro infrastructure.
• Reduce disruption to residents and their property from future operational and maintenance work.
• Improve public safety.
• Improve worker safety.
• Reduce the number and duration of unplanned power outages (e.g., from weather events).
• Reduce risk of environmental damage.
• Lower operational and maintenance costs.
• Lower capital replacement costs.

Power outages:

In order to safely replace poles and upgrade equipment, power outages will be needed. We will make every effort to notify customers of an outage within a reasonable timeframe and with at least one days’ notice. Sometimes emergency outages will be required. We apologize for the inconvenience this may cause.

Street disruptions and tree trimming:

Intermittent lane reductions and/or street closures may occur, as well as some reductions in available street parking. For safety reasons, we will also need to trim trees in order to maintain proper clearances to the overhead electric infrastructure.

This work ensures a safe and reliable source of electricity to you, our customers. Should you have any questions about the work, please contact customer service at 613-546-0000, Monday to Friday, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.