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Puget Sound Energy electric distribution project
Bellingham Alley conversion
Summer 2011 project completion
- Construction in the alley between Cornwall Avenue and Railroad Avenue was completed in July 2011
- Additional phases have been postponed indefinitely
Project overview
To increase reliability and meet current and future energy needs in downtown Bellingham, PSE converted the existing 4 kilovolt electric distribution system to a 12 kV electric distribution system between Cornwall Avenue and Railroad Avenue from York Street to Maple Street. PSE partnered with the city of Bellingham on these electric system upgrades. The city provided the trenching that was necessary to install the system underground, including backfill and restoration.
Originally, plans were to upgrade the electric system between N. State Street and N. Forest Street, and between Railroad Avenue and N. State Street. These additional phases have been postponed indefinitely.
What is a distribution line?
Distribution lines are critical links in the electrical system moving power from electrical substations through distribution transformers directly to homes or businesses. Unlike transmission lines, distribution lines typically carry less than 55 kV; PSE's distribution lines are typically 12.5 kV. Distribution lines can be installed both above and below ground.
Committed to keeping you informed
PSE will continue to provide updates to the community. We will notify residents and businesses near the project area when construction will occur. We aim to complete the work with as little disruption as possible.
Download the information
Download these PDF files for more detail on PSE's Bellingham Alley conversion project.
Project update, April 2009 (47 KB PDF)
Fact sheet, Nov. 2008 (72 KB PDF)
Construction notice, Nov. 2008 (41 KB PDF)
Project map (171 KB PDF)
Before and after images (1 MB PDF)