HomeMy Public PortalAbout2019-02-14 - Leaning Utility Poles Subject Request for Information-Leaning Utility Poles
From Piccirilli,Vincent J
To Driscoll,Michael; Pronovost, Marilyn
Cc Town Councilors
Sent Thursday, February 14,2019 8:48 PM
Attachments <<19-02-12 Forest St Pole 52-16.jpg>>
Request for information at the February 14 Town Council meeting:
As part of the process of developing an approval strategy for small wireless facilities located on utility
poles, the issue of leaning utility poles was raised as a matter of concern. While it is understandable that
old poles, which at one time were installed plumb, may begin to lean over several decades, there is also
an immediate concern with new poles being installed that are leaning.
As an example, please see the attached photo of Forest Street pole #52/16 installed in January 2018
alongside #244-246 Palfrey St.
Please provide the following information, including written responses from Eversource and Verizon:
1. Is the installation of this new pole #52/16 acceptable to Eversource and Verizon, or will this new pole
be removed and reinstalled plumb before any wires are transferred?
2. What is the definition of"plumb" used by Eversource and Verizon for new pole installation, and what is
the maximum allowable tolerance off true vertical in their installation specifications, and how is it
measured?
3. For existing leaning poles in general, how is the safe loading calculation affected by the extent of the
leaning, and what derating factors are used when calculating the load of new cables and equipment
added to a leaning pole?
4. What is the maximum displacement off vertical that is considered unacceptable thus requiring a pole to
be replaced under Eversource and Verizon inspection guidelines?
Thank you
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