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Residents and commuters in Jefferson Heights, Catskill should prepare for traffic delays over the coming weeks as Central Hudson Gas & Electric begins significant repairs on electrical transmission lines. The project, which started on Tuesday (September 9), will reduce Route 23B to a single lane near the Snake Road intersection.
The transmission lines, originally installed in 1928, are nearly a century old and have become obsolete. Central Hudson's Media Relations Director, Joe Jenkins, explained that the new lines will be more advanced, carrying 69,000 volts of electricity between Kingston and Catskill. The upgrades will enhance the system's reliability and allow for the integration of clean energy resources like wind and solar.
Construction will occur from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday, with occasional Sunday work. While some sections of Catskill will see construction, it is not expected to disrupt the regular flow of traffic significantly. However, temporary traffic lights will be installed at the intersection of Jefferson Park.
The project, approved by the state Public Service Commission in August 2022, is divided into three phases. The final phase, which began in September 2024, is expected to conclude by the end of this year. Jenkins advised community members to consider alternate routes during the construction period.