Construction to improve the electric transmission system affecting Lynnfield and nearby towns began last week and is expected to last until February 2026, according to National Grid.
The project involves replacing aging wooden and steel transmission structures with new steel structures along an 18-mile corridor, according to a posting on the Lynnfield town website.
National Grid aims to enhance service capabilities in towns along the corridor, including Tewksbury, Andover, Wilmington, North Reading, Reading, Lynnfield, Wakefield, and Saugus.
“Construction activities will involve vegetation management, installation of access roads, pouring concrete foundations, erecting new structures, and installing fiber optic cables to improve reliability,” the posting says.
Work will take place Monday through Saturday, with Sunday activity scheduled if necessary, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Neighborhoods along Lowell Street, from west of Chestnut Street to Main Street, should expect the most roadway activity throughout the project, with trucks accessing work zones from public streets and existing access routes.
“Crews will access work zones from public streets and existing access routes,” the website says. “Construction activity will take place in the woods behind Hilltop Road, Kimberley Terrace, Sevinor Road, and areas west of Chestnut Street.”
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, insufficient transmission infrastructure can lead to higher electricity costs, more frequent and prolonged power outages, and delays in service improvements.
In May 2023, National Grid announced a $35 billion investment in projects across Massachusetts and New York, including the Massachusetts Electric Sector Modernization Plan, a long-term initiative to improve electric grid reliability.
“National Grid is making it clear that we are a committed partner to help Massachusetts meet its climate and clean energy goals,” said National Grid New England President Lisa Wieland. “The investment is essential to transform the energy ecosystem, build new and expanded infrastructure, and deliver an electric network that is fundamentally smarter, stronger, cleaner, and more equitable than today.”
