Power Lines

Idea:

Why is it not mandatory to for power lines to be underground in new areas of the city such as subdivisions?

Staff Feedback:

Thanks for your question! Typically in new developments, the developers have options as to how they will provide power. Some subdivisions are built with front or rear lot aerial services (meaning the lines are visible above-ground), while others are built with rear lot underground services. The way power is provided in any given situation depends on the type of subdivision being planned and the aesthetic the developer is looking for. While some cities require that power infrastructure be buried, this is a costly option that the developer passes on to future home owners via their lot prices. Another consideration is that the City rights-of-way for public infrastructure is already crowded - adding underground power structures would congest it even more.