National Grid to Public: Temporary access roads along power line construction work are off limits

BOONVILLE- Stay off the access roads... that's what National Grid is stressing to the general public as crews continue progressing with the Smart Path Connect construction project.

The aim for this job, which is part of a multi-phase portfolio of projects with the New York Power Authority, is to re-build more than 100 miles of transmission lines.

When completed, Smart Path Connect project will deliver over 1,000 megawatts of low-cost hydropower generated along the St. Lawrence River, as well as solar and wind generation in northern New York, further reducing the reliance of carbon-emitting plants.

Its environmental impact includes annual reductions of carbon dioxide emissions by 1.16 million tons and nitrogen oxide emissions by 160 tons.

Smart Path Connect supports the clean energy goals outlined in New York’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act – calling for zero-emissions electricity sector by 2040, 70 percent renewable energy generation by 2030.

While officials are celebrating the placement of the 100th pole and over 185,000 work-hours already, authorities are warning recreational goers to keep off the access roads. 

“The weather is getting warmer and we’re seeing more hikers, bikers and ATV users out on the trails,” said Scott Hunter, National Grid’s Construction Supervisor for Smart Path Connect.

“For their safety and the safety of our crews, we ask that the public avoid the rights-of-way of this project and follow directions on signage on our rights-of-way.”

Crews have created temporary access roads to facilitate work on the project. These roads are intended for construction equipment and not public use. The roads will be removed after the project is completed.

National Grid rights-of-way provide protection to critical infrastructure for our electric and gas networks.

"We limit activities within rights-of-way and strictly prohibit unauthorized access on rights-of-way with any motorized vehicle to protect the public and avoid the potential of costly damage to our equipment," National Grid emphasized in a statement.

Only authorized personnel are permitted to use access roads along National Grid rights-of-way.

Image via National Grid.