Work began mid-last month to replace as many as 50 hydro poles, distribution wires and underground cables in the area bound by The Queensway, Coe Hill Drive and Windermere Avenue.
Dubbed 'Project Windermere,' the construction is part of Toronto Hydro's $275 million program to replace and upgrade its aging distribution system. Area residents received advanced notice of the work, according to Toronto Hydro-Electric System Limited spokesperson Denise Attallah, who said they will be alerted to any necessary power interruptions to accommodate the upgrading through letters and a door-to-door campaign."We're working in different pockets throughout the city," said Attallah, "in areas that are experiencing more power outages than average Torontonians."This particular enclave, between Coe Hill Drive, The Queensway and Windermere Avenue, could be experiencing as many as six to nine power outages a year compared to the average of one to two, said Attallah.Toronto Hydro is investing as much as $1 million in the Parkdale-High Park riding to improve electricity service distribution for residents. The neighbourhood's equipment was initially installed more than three decades ago. Over the past 30 years, the existing equipment has taken a beating. Our harsh winters have corroded and worn this equipment and caused an increasing number of power outages. New poles and wires will be installed before the old ones are removed. The existing poles must stay put for the duration of construction to ensure that proper transfer of any outside utility equipment takes place. Project Windermere is scheduled for completion in November. While residents can expect power interruptions intermittently to ensure the safety of work crews, said Attallah, they can rest assured they will receive ample notice beforehand "so customers can minimize the effects."The construction is taking place between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays and the occasional Saturday. For further details about how Toronto Hydro is investing in upgrading the city's electricity grid, visit www.torontohydro.com