The Circuit 63 Undergrounding Project is substantially complete. All underground electrical work, customer conversions, and infrastructure removal have been completed. The only remaining work is the installation of three streetlights. Due to an incorrect shipment from the manufacturer, the project team is awaiting delivery of the correct fixtures. Additional information on the delivery timeline is expected within the next few weeks, as these items are considered long-lead materials.
With the underground conversion complete, Statesville Public Power crews have removed the former electrical infrastructure throughout the neighborhood, leaving only communication lines on the existing poles. The project has significantly reduced the amount of overhead electrical infrastructure in the area while improving the reliability and appearance of the electric system. The new streetlights have also been installed throughout most of the project area, with the final three fixtures to be added once the correct shipment arrives.
Crews have completed all individual customer conversions to the new underground electrical system and will now begin removing the overhead system. Due to delivery delays involving several streetlights, portions of the project will extend slightly into May. Residents may notice some areas are darker than normal while crews strategically install the streetlights currently on hand. The remaining lights are expected to arrive soon, and the project is anticipated to be completed by mid-May.
Significant progress has been made on the Circuit 63 Undergrounding Project over the past two weeks. The floodplain development permit has been filed with the state, and required bores near the floodway have been completed. Statesville Public Power crews have finalized underground service conversions with customers and are working to complete final connections at meter base locations. Contractors are actively installing transformer pads, pedestals, junction boxes, and have begun pulling wire in some areas. Next steps include installing and terminating transformers, completing customer connections, and installing streetlights. If weather conditions remain favorable, the project is expected to wrap up by the end of April.
Boring crews have continued making progress on conduit installations since the last update in December. The City is currently finalizing a required floodplain development permit for one of the final bores near the creek due to its proximity to the floodway.
Once all customers who have opted to convert their electrical service underground are verified, the contractor will complete the remaining bores. After that work is finished, underground crews will mobilize to install transformers, streetlights, pedestals, and wiring throughout the project area.
Due to Winter Storm Fern, little progress is expected this week until temperatures rise and ground conditions improve. If weather conditions cooperate, the project is anticipated to wrap up in March.
Boring crews have been actively installing electrical conduit throughout the neighborhood over the past several weeks. This conduit will allow underground wiring to connect transformers, pedestals, and streetlights.
The project is approximately 50% complete, with conduit installation expected to be substantially complete by the end of January, weather permitting. Once all conduit installation is finished, electrical crews will mobilize to begin installing equipment and wiring.
Construction activity began in early December on the Circuit 63 Undergrounding Project. The boring crew began potholing locations for electric equipment in preparation for the next phase of work.
Pipe boring is also taking place during this period. Residents and motorists are asked to use caution while construction is underway in the neighborhood.
The Circuit 63 Undergrounding Project is moving forward, with the electrical design now about 95% complete. The design will be finalized and released to a subcontractor in October. Once crews mobilize, construction in the neighborhood is expected to take about two months, depending on weather conditions.
Circuit 63 Undergrounding Project
August 2025
Location: Valley Stream Road, Earlwood Road, and Glenhaven Road
Project Overview
The Circuit 63 Undergrounding Project is a major infrastructure upgrade designed to improve electric reliability for residents in the Valley Stream, Earlwood, and Glenhaven neighborhoods. This area has experienced frequent power outages during storms due to its large population of mature trees. To address this, overhead lines will be placed underground, and the existing 4 kV circuit will be converted to a more modern 22.9 kV system. The project includes boring conduit and installing padmount transformers throughout the neighborhood.
Key Features
Project Timeline & Investment
Funding Sources
This project is funded through the City of Statesville.
Potential Disruptions
Why This Project Matters
By replacing aging infrastructure and moving electric lines underground, the Circuit 63 Undergrounding Project will significantly improve service reliability and safety in these neighborhoods. This investment ensures modern, dependable electric service, reduces outage risks during storms, and enhances the overall appearance of the community.
