Michigan public power utility Grand Haven Board of Light & Power has begun the undergrounding of electrical lines in downtown Grand Haven.
The work will convert 13.2 kilovolt overhead distribution electrical lines at a budgetary cost of $1.3 million.
“This is a project that has been discussed for over a decade,” said Rob Shelley, BLP General Manager. “We planned ahead and took advantage of the Harbor Drive road reconstruction in 2018 by placing underground conduit in preparation for this conversion. Now that these power lines have reached the end of their useful life, this replacement project will not only be a significant enhancement for the reliability of the downtown electrical circuit but will also serve to enhance the visual appearance of our downtown area.”
The project consists of two new underground three phase circuits, pad mount switchgear, sectionalizing cabinets, underground secondary conductors, and the removal of poles and overhead wire.
Directional boring began in March 2025 and is expected to be completed in mid-May.
Work will cease from Memorial Day through Labor Day and then the project will pick back up in the fall with the installation of new underground cable, and the removal of overhead poles and wires.
The entire project is scheduled for completion by December 2025. Kent Power will be performing the work and right of way permits have already been issued by the City of Grand Haven.
Mike Westbrook, chairman of the BLP Board, stated, “Grand Haven has a fantastic downtown and this project will significantly enhance the visual appeal of our community for both residents, businesses and visitors. This project is a continuation of the significant investments made over the past 10 years in electrical upgrades to all areas of our service territories including the City of Ferrysburg, Grand Haven Township, Spring Lake Township, and in the City of Grand Haven. These improvements not only help with reliability, but they also add significant value to the communities we serve.”
Project updates will be posted on the BLP’s website at: www.ghblp.org/projects.
