Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is undergrounding?
A: Undergrounding is the process of converting overhead utility lines – generally electric, telephone, and television – to an underground location and removing the utility poles.
Q: What are the benefits?
A: An underground utility system provides community resiliency, reliability, safety, and aesthetic benefits as compared to an equivalent overhead system.
Q: Who is impacted?
A: Every electric and communications customer in the Village will be impacted – directly or indirectly – through the replacement of overhead building service lines, the refeeding of underground service lines, and the connection of equipment that provides electric and communications service to each building.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: After reviewing assumptions and qualifications about how the program will be executed with The Village, it was determined that the program cost in 2021 dollars is anticipated to be $206,300,00 after considering contingencies and projected inflation from 2022 to 2034.
Q: When will it happen?
A: The undergrounding program is anticipated to take approximately 13 years to complete once approved to move forward by the Village Council. The schedule may be extended due to financial considerations.
Q: How will my property be affected?
A: Every electric meter and communications service point that is not already connected to an underground power or communications grid will need to be connected to the new underground system. This may require the installation of new underground service lines, and some property owners will be asked to provide easements for equipment that will be relocated from the utility poles to the ground.
Q: What does the equipment look like?
A: There are many types of equipment involved in an undergrounding project. The most common types of equipment can be viewed here.
