wiredinUSA November 2013

S&E finds much to “Play Fore” Beautification project relocates power cables The Canadian district of Sparwood and BC Hydro have commenced work on a beautificatio project that will relocate overhead power cables underground to improve theaestheticsof thecommunity’s downtown area.

investments in Sparwood and is one of a number of infrastructure projects that will facilitate further investment in the community. BC Hydro’s beautification program assists municipal governments in achieving their objectives towards environmental concerns, improving visual aesthetics or to accommodate a public redevelopment project. BC Hydro shares up to a third of the electrical cost with municipalities to relocate overhead distribution lines underground. BC Hydro contacts municipalities every year, outlining the program criteria and application requirements.

Commenting on the initiative, Mayor Halko said: “This is the first of two such beautificationprojectswhichwill enhance the look and feel of our downtown area, as well as improve the routing of power to certain areas and businesses in the downtown core. We are pleased to have had the support of BC Hydro through their beautification grant.” The $350,000 project follows the recent announcement of a range of significant

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wiredInUSA - November 2013