Underground Power Line Work Finishes in Downtown Manassas

The City of Manassas has officially finished moving downtown Manassas power lines underground. The final pole was removed in the Center Street/Prescott Avenue Overhead to Underground project on Wednesday, Nov. 19.

In total, the project removed 33 utility poles from the side of the road and moved 27,708 feet of power lines underground. The project, which started in July 2012, took more than 15,000 man hours and upgraded 3,216 feet of water main pipes along Center St., Prescott Ave., Zebedee St., Quarry Road, Cherry St. and Maple St.

Moving the lines from above to below ground not only makes the area more visually appealing, but also ensures more reliable electric service. Local Comcast and Verizon lines were also moved during the project and 20 old-fashion street lights were installed to give the area a historic feel.

“This project has really improved, not only the aesthetics of the area, but the reliability of service that we can offer our customers,” said Public Works and Utilities Director Mike Moon in a press release. “Completing this project has been a major undertaking and I commend everyone involved in the process.”

The project finished on time and on budget, costing $1.73 million for the new lights, underground power and upgraded water main.

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