PSEG Launches 'Storm Hardening' Program In West Babylon

WEST BABYLON, NY — PSEG is taking action to improve the reliability of West Babylon's energy grid.

The "Power On" program, which began in early November, intends to provide "storm hardening work " such as strengthening electric lines.

“This Power On infrastructure improvement project in West Babylon is part of our ongoing, multi-year effort to continue to improve electric reliability for our customers,” said Peggy Keane, PSEG Long Island’s vice president of Construction and Operations Services. “PSEG Long Island is strengthening the electric lines that directly power homes and businesses because we know that electric reliability is more important than ever to our customers.”

The storm-hardening improvements include:

· Stronger poles: PSEG Long Island will replace some existing utility poles with stronger, more durable poles that are capable of withstanding winds up to 135 mph. The new poles will be approximately the same height as the existing poles, have a stronger base and will be placed no more than five feet from the current pole locations. PSEG Long Island will actively coordinate the removal of old poles with other utilities and municipalities.

· Narrow profiles: To help wires deflect falling limbs instead of catching them, PSEG Long Island will be installing shorter cross arms atop some poles.

· Stronger wire: Current wire will be replaced with more resilient and durable wire.

· Upgrading: PSEG Long Island will upgrade or replace worn equipment as necessary.

Crews will be working on the following streets in West Babylon:

· Straight Path between Herzel Boulevard and Edison Avenue

· Herzel Boulevard between Straight Path and 8th Avenue

· Herzel Boulevard between 14th Avenue and Little East Neck Road

The project will last for two months, PSEG said in a release.

The company recommend that customers remain in their homes when crews are working nearby.

Power On is a five-year program that started in the spring of 2020

To learn more about Power On, click here.