LYNNFIELD — Construction to improve the electric transmission system affecting Lynnfield and other nearby towns began last week by the National Grid and is expected to last until February 2026.
The project will entail 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 looks to increase its service capabilities for the towns where the corridor runs through, 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 from Monday through Saturday, with Sunday activity, if necessary, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Neighborhoods on Lowell Street from west of Chestnut Street to Main Street should expect the most roadway activity during the project’s duration, with trucks accessing the 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 United States Department of Energy, a lack of transmission leads to higher electricity costs, more frequent and longer power outages, and delayed access to transmission.
In May of last year, National Grid announced a $35 billion investment into projects across Massachusetts and New York, including the Massachusetts Electric Sector Modernization Plan, a long-term vision for a better and more reliable electric grid.
“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.”
