Require Utility Lines in Raleigh to Be Moved Underground
The Issue
When I first moved to Raleigh, I was captivated by its beautiful neighborhoods, lush greenery, and vibrant community. But after a few severe storms knocked down power lines, leaving me without electricity for days, the need for a more reliable and resilient infrastructure became clear. Overhead utility lines may seem cost-effective in the short term, but they pose numerous risks and inefficiencies.
Moving local utility lines underground, just like our water and gas systems already are, would drastically improve service reliability, minimize storm-related outages, and enhance the aesthetic value of our city. According to a study by the Edison Electric Institute, underground power lines experience 60% fewer outages than overhead lines. This transition would not only bolster our infrastructure resilience but also support environmental sustainability by reducing the number of trees that need to be cut back from the roads in order to properly maintain overhead lines.
Economically, while the initial costs of burying power lines may seem to be higher, they are offset by reduced maintenance costs and much fewer repairs needed after storms. A report from Dominion Energy found that over a longer timeframe, underground lines are indeed cheaper due to these reduced operational expenses. Additionally, undergrounding reduces the risk of wildfires caused by fallen lines, a growing concern in our warmer, drier seasons.
Imagine a Raleigh where street views are unencumbered by drooping wires and bulky utility poles, many of which are still coated in old toxic chemicals, as you see all over Wade Avenue. There is no reason that the residents of Raleigh should have to deal with the eyesore or have to pay more in the long run to maintain antiquated infrastructure that is already rapidly becoming obsolete. By investing in underground utilities, we are planting seeds for a future where our children and grandchildren can enjoy a greener, safer, more efficient, and more beautiful environment.
It's time to secure a sustainable and robust future for Raleigh. Please join me in calling for this vital change. Sign this petition to make our neighborhoods safer, more reliable, and more beautiful.
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The Issue
When I first moved to Raleigh, I was captivated by its beautiful neighborhoods, lush greenery, and vibrant community. But after a few severe storms knocked down power lines, leaving me without electricity for days, the need for a more reliable and resilient infrastructure became clear. Overhead utility lines may seem cost-effective in the short term, but they pose numerous risks and inefficiencies.
Moving local utility lines underground, just like our water and gas systems already are, would drastically improve service reliability, minimize storm-related outages, and enhance the aesthetic value of our city. According to a study by the Edison Electric Institute, underground power lines experience 60% fewer outages than overhead lines. This transition would not only bolster our infrastructure resilience but also support environmental sustainability by reducing the number of trees that need to be cut back from the roads in order to properly maintain overhead lines.
Economically, while the initial costs of burying power lines may seem to be higher, they are offset by reduced maintenance costs and much fewer repairs needed after storms. A report from Dominion Energy found that over a longer timeframe, underground lines are indeed cheaper due to these reduced operational expenses. Additionally, undergrounding reduces the risk of wildfires caused by fallen lines, a growing concern in our warmer, drier seasons.
Imagine a Raleigh where street views are unencumbered by drooping wires and bulky utility poles, many of which are still coated in old toxic chemicals, as you see all over Wade Avenue. There is no reason that the residents of Raleigh should have to deal with the eyesore or have to pay more in the long run to maintain antiquated infrastructure that is already rapidly becoming obsolete. By investing in underground utilities, we are planting seeds for a future where our children and grandchildren can enjoy a greener, safer, more efficient, and more beautiful environment.
It's time to secure a sustainable and robust future for Raleigh. Please join me in calling for this vital change. Sign this petition to make our neighborhoods safer, more reliable, and more beautiful.
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Petition created on August 26, 2026