As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over Los Alamos, the Board of Public Utilities convened to discuss a significant infrastructure project that promises to enhance the reliability of power for local residents. The meeting, held on June 25, 2025, focused on the Trinity Drive primary electric replacement, a project born from the need to address several line failures that have affected over 1,600 customers.

Chair Gibson and board members were briefed on the project's details, which include the installation of new power lines and the relocation of existing infrastructure. The discussion highlighted the challenges faced when a critical feeder line, known as feeder 13, failed over a year ago. This line, which runs from Trinity Drive to the Oppenheimer Apartments, is vital for supplying electricity to a dense residential area and essential facilities like the Los Alamos Medical Center.

The project will unfold in two phases, beginning at the intersection near a local gas station and extending to Timber Ridge. The first phase involves trenching under the sidewalk to install new lines, a method necessitated by the existing infrastructure and recent work done by Comcast. This careful planning aims to minimize disruption while ensuring that the new lines can effectively serve the community.

Concerns about traffic impacts were raised during the meeting, particularly in light of previous construction work in the area. Steve, the project manager, assured the board that a buffer zone would be established to facilitate safe operations without fully closing lanes. The project is designed to maintain a rolling work zone, allowing for continued access while ensuring safety for both workers and drivers.

In addition to the technical aspects, the board discussed the materials to be used in the project. A recommendation was made to consider fiberglass for certain components, which could offer advantages over traditional metal options. This suggestion reflects a growing awareness of the benefits of modern materials in utility projects.

As the meeting concluded, the board expressed optimism about the project's potential to improve service reliability and reduce outages in the future. With a budget that has been carefully allocated and a single successful bid from a contractor, the groundwork is set for a project that not only addresses immediate concerns but also lays the foundation for a more resilient electrical infrastructure in Los Alamos. The community can look forward to enhanced power reliability as this essential work progresses in the coming months.