Queen Anne Underground Cable Replacement

Project Description

There are four miles of direct-buried underground cable that serves Queen Anne. We’re splitting the cable replacement up into two phases:

• In Phase 1, crews will replace 2.5 miles of cable. This replacement encompasses the equipment with the greatest number of failures.
• Phase 2 will cover the remaining length of cable and equipment.

Splitting the project into two phases allows us to address frequently failing infrastructure first while spreading costs out over time.

Crews will install new duct banks, conduits, streetlights, and vaults along the construction area. Seattle Public Utilities will also upgrade sections of the neighborhood’s water systems during civil construction. Once underground civil construction is complete, City Light crews will install new cables for the electrical distribution system.

Location

Construction will occur in the lower Queen Anne area.

Community Benefits

This work will result in enhanced electrical reliability and reduce the likelihood of unplanned power outages in the Queen Anne area. Each phase will improve reliability for the entire project area.

Schedule

Phase 1: We expect to start construction in the first half of 2027.

Phase 2: We expect to start construction before 2030. This start date will be heavily dependent on the progress of Phase 1 and the coordination of construction impacts.

Anticipated Impacts

• The contractor may work in multiple locations at a time.
• Customers can expect temporary parking and traffic restrictions. The contractor will work to limit traffic impacts.
• Construction will require sections of roadway in the construction zone to be closed to traffic while construction is in progress.
• Power outages will be required to complete the work safely. We will notify affected residents in advance before any planned power outages.
• Trenching for conduits will occur in the public right-of-way (e.g., street and planting strips). Crews will cover trenches with steel plates outside of construction work hours.
• The contractor will work closely with the City of Seattle to protect trees and mitigate any removals.
• All affected streets and landscaping will be restored and repaved, per City of Seattle standards.
• Driveway access to houses closest to the construction will be limited during working hours.
• Vehicles will be able to pass during non-working hours.
• The project will not cause interruption to mail delivery or garbage/recycling/yard waste services.
• Private service connections to homes are not included in this work. If homeowners would like to upgrade their property’s electrical service, they will need to submit an electrical service request. Please review our electrical service guidance for more information.