PEC removes trees for power line safety

  • Published
  • By Robin DeMark
  • 4 FW/PA
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  In partnership with Seymour Johnson AFB, Progress Energy Carolinas will begin tree removal and trimming on base, Aug. 15.

Base residents can expect utility crews to continue the work for the next six to eight weeks along Lyster Street, Vermont Garrison, and the eastern area of base housing near Oak Forest Road.

"The tree removal and trimming ensures the existing and upcoming new electric lines are safe from tree damage during wind and ice storms," said Brian Joyner, 4th Civil Engineer Squadron Asset Optimization Chief.  "A new utility easement was just signed between the Air Force and Progress Energy for this partnership to continue for another five decades."

The project will replace existing transmission poles with new poles and new lines.

"The poles will carry a double circuit as opposed to the single circuit," Joyner said.  "The project will relocate distribution lines from poles on base to PEC poles along Lyster Street. Tree removal is now in preparation for the new line construction that begins next spring." 

Added energy security for Goldsboro and Eastern N.C. is one of the benefits of this project.

"This allows PEC the ability to provide power to this part of N.C. in case one circuit is damaged by inclement weather," said Matt Latham, 4th CES Base Energy Manager. "The electric company would have the ability to return power to their customers and the base much quicker. This enhances energy security for Seymour Johnson."

Another plus for the base and the Goldsboro community is increased power capacity.

"PEC had a need to add a second circuit to increase their power capacity for everyone," he added. "The base remains a high priority for PEC. We are helping them use an existing route to meet their energy needs. It's a good partnership for both of us."

After tree removal is complete, PEC will plant new trees and shrubbery to improve the appearance of the base along the electric line route.

"The new landscaping is designed to be lower growing vegetation to eliminate weather-related hazards and prevent the need for future tree removal," Joyner said. "There will be landscaping planted along the route and two-for one tree replacement at various areas around the base."

For more information about the project, contact the 4th CES at 919-722-7440.