Regional power line to undergo repairs

LYNN, SAUGUS, REVERE – National Grid will begin refurbishing an existing electricity transmission line that runs through Lynn, Revere and Saugus this month to meet the area’s growing demand for electricity.The project, which will also provide service to several other North Shore communities, will replace wires and many of the supporting structures and related electrical hardware.It will extend from National Grid’s Golden Hills substation in Saugus, southeast along the Melrose/Saugus border, through the Franklin Park area of Revere and the Rumney Marsh reservation in Saugus.The project will continue across Bear Creek and the Saugus River into Lynn, ending at the General Edwards Bridge.On Jan. 12-13, 19-20 and 26-27, National Grid will conduct construction activities and will use helicopters for transmission tower work in the Lynnway/Saugus River area.The helicopters will be used to transport workers and equipment to transmission line towers in the Saugus River, which would otherwise be difficult to access according to National Grid. The company may also use barges in the area as platforms to complete the work.The left lane on the southbound side of Route 1A will be closed just before the General Edwards Bridge on Jan. 19-20, and Jan. 26-27 from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. so that crews can safely replace the existing transmission line.In addition, National Grid said they would make every effort possible to minimize disturbances to the community and its residents.