Madison Utility Pole Removal Program Begins

MADISON, CT – Over the next few weeks, the town of Madison will be removing utility poles in the downtown area, according to First Selectwoman Peggy Lyons.

A&S Electrical Services, Inc. coordinated with Eversource to complete the transition of electrical services from the poles to the underground circuit for the south side of Boston Post Road, making it possible for the overhead wires and utility poles for selected properties on the south side of Boston Post Road will be removed.

“After decades of delays, I am excited to say we are finally in the process of removing the utility poles from Madison’s beautiful downtown center,” Lyons said through a prepared statement. “I am especially grateful we can accomplish this with minimal disruptions to our local businesses and main street visitors.”

The removal of the utility poles is a phase of the Madison Center Project, a decades-long community involvement project designed to enhance the streetscape of Madison’s downtown central business district.

“After working cooperatively with local property owners, Eversource, town boards and our public works department, we have been able to get this project closer than ever to the finish line,” Lyons stated. “I want to thank the many current and former elected officials, planning committee volunteers, town staff, Eversource personnel and property owners for their vision and commitment to completion of this project.”

The project to transfer electrical services from the poles to the underground circuit for the north side of Boston Post Road has been delayed by limited availability due to supply chain constraints of selected electrical equipment by specific Eversource at individual properties. However, the Town is working closely with Eversource to find alternative designs to address the equipment shortage and expedite project completion.

“Whether it be budget constraints, easement disputes or equipment shortages, I have shared in our community’s frustration over the recurring delays that have spanned many years,” Lyons added. “However, I believe the positive long-term benefits to our downtown will ultimately outweigh the challenges we faced, allowing Madison residents, business owners and visitors alike to enjoy a more beautiful streetscape for decades to come.”

Following the completion of the utility project, the Town intends to move forward with plans to extend streetscape enhancements to Route 79 and further additional traffic, pedestrian and bicycle safety improvements.