Resolution No. 4992 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Winter Storm # 4 Proposed Action Item: Alignment with Plan Goals: Goal 2, 4 Consider upgrading lines and poles to improve wind/ice loading, undergrounding critical lines, and adding interconnect switches to allow alternative feed paths and disconnect switches to minimize outage areas. Rationale for Proposed Action Item: High winds and ice during winter storms can topple trees and break limbs which in turn can result in power outages and disrupt telephone, computer, and TV and radio service. In addition, ice from winter storms can accumulate on power lines, causing lines and poles to break. While the Eugene Water and Electric Board (EWEB) and the Springfield Utility Board (SUB) construct them to meet certain loading standards, some lines and poles should be upgraded to improve wind and ice loading, critical lines should be undergrounded, interconnect switches should be installed in areas to allow alternative feed paths, and disconnect switches should be installed to minimize outage areas. Each of these efforts would significantly improve service in the Eugene/Springfield metro area and protect power infrastructure from winter storms. The Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 requires communities to identify mitigation actions that address new and existing buildings and infrastructure [201.6(c)(3)(ii)]. Improving power infrastructure by upgrading lines and poles to improve wind/ice loading, undergrounding critical lines, adding interconnect switches to allow alternative feed paths, and disconnecting switches to minimize outage areas will all help to improve electrical service in the Eugene/Springfield metro area and protect this critical infrastructure from winter storms. Ideas for Implementation: Identify areas that are subject to frequent power outages and develop appropriate solutions to reduce the likelihood of a power outage. Seek funding for specific areas subject to frequent power outages from winter storms. For a list of funding resources, see the Resources Appendix in this mitigation plan. Coordinating Organization: Eugene Water and Electric Board (EWEB), Springfield Utility Board (SUB) Internal Partners: External Partners: Eugene/Springfield Public Works OEM, FEMA Timeline:If available, estimated cost: Short Term ()Long Term (2-4 or more years) 0-2 years Ongoing Form Submitted by: Eugene and Springfield Steering Committees Action Item Status: Continued from 2004 plan.