WHAT & WHY:
Chelan County PUD is upgrading electrical infrastructure along Columbia Street near the Morris Building to improve safety, reliability, and service for downtown businesses, residents, and visitors.
Please refer to the highlighted area on the map for the project work zone.
WHAT'S HAPPENING?
As part of this project, portions of the existing overhead electrical system will be relocated underground, and new electrical equipment will be installed to address clearance concerns between nearby buildings and power facilities.
Project improvements include:
- Relocating portions of overhead power facilities to underground
- Installing new electrical equipment
- Supporting future service needs in the downtown area
Construction Schedule
Construction Schedule
Work began in early August but has been delayed as crews complete other projects with limited work windows.
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Boring across Orondo Avenue: A start date for boring across Orondo Avenue has not yet been confirmed.
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Concrete restoration: Restoration of previously trenched areas is nearing completion. Remaining concrete pours will take place as scheduling allows. A final completion date has not yet been confirmed.
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Alley work: Work in the alleys is currently expected to begin in 2027.
What to Expect
- Temporary traffic and pedestrian detours
- Construction crews, equipment, and noise
- Temporary parking or street access impacts
- Planned power outages for some customers (advance notice will be provided)
- Communication companies will remove their overhead wires after the new underground electric service is energized. PUD crews will then remove the old utility poles.