Frequently Asked Questions
The 313/343 line is located in Massachusetts. The line travels through the towns and cities of Millbury, Grafton, Shrewsbury, Boylston, West Boylston, Sterling, Lancaster, Shirley, and Ayer.
Upgrades to the 345kV transmission line are occurring to address asset condition issues identified through routine inspections. The project has been divided into two independent phases. Phase One, that is currently taking place, includes addressing maintenance items and replacement of structures believed to require immediate attention. Phase Two does not have a start date at this time.
The project involves replacing the existing wood structures with steel structures. The new structures will look similar to the existing ones.
The 313/343 line will remain at the current 345kV when this project is complete.
We do not anticipate the need to increase the cleared width of the ROW, however, in some areas we may need to work with individual landowners for additional on and off-ROW access needs.
Phase One of construction is currently underway and is anticipated to be complete in June 2026. Our project engagement team is available to answer any questions you may have. This schedule is subject to change. We will update the schedule, as needed, as the project progresses.
Crews will access the right-of-way from public streets or other existing access points. Improvements to existing access routes are also required to facilitate construction and future maintenance.
In instances where access is not possible via public ways or easements, individual landowners will be contacted directly by a project team member.
The project team will work with local agencies to provide advance notice of any needed detours or changes to travel patterns.
During construction, crews typically work Monday – Saturday, between the hours determined by each town or city’s bylaws, unless there is an emergency or unforeseen circumstance.
Work will be limited to normal daytime hours approved by the municipality except for cases when it is necessary to work outside of these hours for safety or reliability reasons.
After construction is complete, the project team will ensure that anything disturbed by the work is restored. Environmental monitors will also check restoration areas periodically to ensure invasive species standards, agricultural standards and vegetative uptake standards are maintained after construction is complete.
We will update this website as the project progresses. We are committed to keeping you informed at all stages of the project and are available to answer any questions by phone at 844-313-3436 or by email at info@centralmassreliability.com.
The project engagement team is available by phone: 844-313-3436, email: info@centralmassreliability.com, or the contact form on this webpage.
In instances where access is not possible via public ways or easements, individual landowners will be contacted directly.
Tree trimming, removals and/or vegetation management occur throughout the project where needed.
Herbicides will not be used for project work. The forestry team will utilize methods including typical cutting and mowing.
