Helicopters will be hovering over Saugus

National Grid will use the choppers as part of their transmission line work scheduled for next week

National Grid has alerted the Town of Saugus that helicopters will be used for transmission line work near the Wakefield line, according to a press release issued this week by Town Manager Scott C. Crabtree’s office. The utility company has launched a project to replace existing wood structures and some steel structures with new steel transmission line structures. This project includes the installation of fiber-optic cable on new structures to improve electric reliability by enabling communication between substations, the press release said.

To date, crews have completed foundation drilling and roadwork that is necessary for the project. National Grid’s current schedule for the transmission line project is listed below (the schedule is subject to change due to any inclement weather or outage constraints).

Structure installations and line work: Nov. 4, 2024, to Dec. 21, 2024.

Helicopter use: Nov. 25, 2024, to Dec. 11, 2024.

Restoration: Dec. 7, 2024, to Jan. 10, 2025.

National Grid previously notified abutters about this transmission line project through the process to receive an order of conditions from the Saugus Conservation Commission, in addition to directing outreach representatives to go door-to-door to notify abutters. In its notice to abutters, National Grid outlined that work will generally occur between the hours of 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Mondays through Saturdays (and on Sundays as necessary). National Grid advised abutters that there will be an increase of vehicles and team members within the work areas, noting that employees and consultants are expected to wear their required personal protection equipment, which includes hardhats, high visibility vests, and photo IDs.

If you have any questions or would like further information on construction activities specific to the proximity of your home or business, please contact the National Grid project hotline at 781-236-6286 or email gary.stfleur@nationalgrid.com. Residents can also contact Saugus Town Engineer Kevin Hallion at 781-231-4032 with questions related to the transmission line project.