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Health & Fitness

UI's tree trimming plans to be discussed at public hearing

United Illuminating’s plan for dealing with trees near power lines will be discussed at two public hearings scheduled by state regulators: Wednesday, March 5 at 6:30 p.m. at the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority office (10 Franklin Square, New Britain) and Thursday, March 6, at 6:30 p.m. at the Hamden Middle School Auditorium, (2623 Dixwell Ave., Hamden).

The state Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) will host a public hearing and technical meeting on the public utility’s tree-trimming plan, also referred to as a “Vegetation Management Program.” PURA is the state agency charged with regulating rates and services of Connecticut’s electricity, natural gas, water and telecommunication public service companies.

“I strongly suggest all Woodbridge residents with an opinion or questions about the matter attend this upcoming meeting,” says Woodbridge First Selectman Ellen Scalettar. “I hope that the final plan will respect our town’s rural character, protect the local environment and keep residents safe through avoiding power failures.”  

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Several Woodbridge residents have voiced concern that the plan is too aggressive. However, United Illuminating says it is necessary to proactively trim trees near power lines, since fallen limbs are the most frequent cause of power outages.

In early 2012, as part of his storm disaster preparedness and recovery initiatives, Governor Dannel Malloy tasked PURA with addressing the utility companies’ tree trimming plans to prevent excessive infrastructure damage.

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In general, UI’s plan calls for cutting or removing trees within 8 feet of power lines.

For more information about the tree-trimming plan, you may watch the Feb. 12 Board of Selectmen meeting on Channel 79, which includes a 20-minute discussion with United Illuminating representatives.  The Town of Woodbridge Library also has an available DVD of the meeting.

Or, visit UI’s page about the plan.







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