COUNTY NEWS

After a four-month break during the winter, the contractor Alamon will return to Los Alamos in May to finish testing the integrity and strength of wooden utility poles on behalf of the Los Alamos Department of Public Utilities. Based on its findings, preventative maintenance on a compromised utility pole may be undertaken immediately.

Specifically, crews will bore into wooden poles, check shavings and dig around the base looking for signs of rot.  Poles demonstrating signs of weakness will be reinforced with braces to improve safety and extend the useful life.  Crews will also add fumigates into the pole to stop internal decay. Inspections will begin in the townsite and then finish up in White Rock by mid-July.

Department officials advise that Alamon crews will need access to utility poles on residential property, including those in backyards. “We ask for customers’ cooperation to coordinate access,” stated DPU Electric Distribution Engineering Associate Alan Horton.  “Alamon’s crews will knock on the door to let residents know that they will be entering the backyard. A door hanger with a phone number will be left if additional arrangements need to be made.”

According to Horton, Alamon crews will adhere to COVID safety protocols.  This includes wearing masks and socially distancing from others. 

For additional information, contact the Customer Care Center, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 505.662.8333 or by email at CustomerCare@lacnm.us.