BERLIN, Connecticut - March 10, 2010 - Connecticut Light & Power (CL&P) is reminding area residents that tree trimming is under way in the city of Norwalk. The $425,000 project involves about 40 percent of the electrical distribution system that serves the city. Work is expected to be completed by the end of the year. Trimming is vital to reducing the number of tree-related power outages and improving service reliability for customers of CL&P.
Trees are the number one cause of power outages, and regularly scheduled trimming is needed to reduce service interruptions. Trimming is also necessary to provide sufficient working space so line workers can maintain a safe distance from power lines when repairing them.
Crews from Lewis Tree Service are working under the guidance of CL&P Vegetation Management Coordinator Doug Pistawka and Norwalk Director of Public Works Hal Alvord. The tree trimmers are working to create an average clearance zone of eight feet alongside electric lines, 15 feet above the lines and 10 feet below.
Prior to performing any work, representatives from Lewis Tree Service identify trees that are dead, diseased, or structurally weak and capable of touching the electrical lines. Following the inspection, residents will be informed of the intended work. Information will be left at the doors of property owners who are not home. Norwalk residents with questions may contact CL&P's Customer Service at (800) 286-2000.
The Connecticut Light and Power Company (CL&P) has been part of everyday life in Connecticut for more than 100 years, providing safe and reliable electric service to homes, neighborhoods and businesses. With 1.2 million customers in 149 cities and towns, CL&P is improving the environments you live in, by offering programs in energy conservation, economic development and environmental stewardship. CL&P is a Northeast Utilities company (NYSE: NU). For more information, please visit www.cl-p.com.
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