PG&E to Employ Helicopters for Dumbarton Bridge Project

PG&E is warning drivers not to be alarmed if they see helicopters hovering above the Dumbarton Bridge this week. Starting today, helicopters will take to the skies above the bridge as part of a project to upgrade existing electric transmission towers in Alameda County, according to PG&E officials.

The project upgrades will be taking place on the eastern portion of the bridge, near Newark, and will last through Nov. 13, PG&E officials said. During this time, construction will be apparent and drivers are reminded not to become distracted, according to PG&E. In addition to the use of helicopters, two lanes in either direction on the bridge will be closed on Sunday, from noon to 9 a.m., according to PG&E.

The helicopters are being used to modify the existing towers and to pull new wire across the top of towers. The use of helicopters eliminates the need for heavy trucks and equipment on land, reducing the project’s environmental impact, according to PG&E.

The purpose of the project is to upgrade seven miles of the transmission towers and high-voltage power lines in Alameda County and along the Dumbarton Bridge, resulting in improved electric reliability and increased power supplies as the demand for electricity grows, PG&E officials said. Construction on the transmission tower upgrades is expected to last through the end of the year, PG&E officials said.

By Bay City News

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