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Riverton Electrical Upgrade Keeps Bright Future Commitments on Track

Modernization project will improve service reliability and minimize outages

A recent electrical system upgrade in the Riverton area led by Clarksdale Public Utilities will increase reliability, reduce outages and set the stage for further infrastructure improvements that will benefit customers for years to come.

“This project is a continuation of the Bright Future initiative we launched five years ago to drive service improvements and new technology investments,” said Curtis D. Boschert, general manager, CPU. “Our customers in the Riverton area are now served by a modern, state-of-the-art distribution system that will minimize service interruptions and provide a long-term source of safe, reliable and affordable power.”

The Riverton area encompasses Madison Avenue to Washington Avenue, McGee Street to Walnut Street, Madison Avenue to Jackson Avenue and Bishop F.M. Dawson Street to Riverside Avenue.

During the upgrade, utility crews replaced aging copper primary wires and conductors with modern lines and components that are safer, stronger, more reliable and less prone to breakage and deterioration. Over the next several years, CPU plans to replace all old copper conductors throughout the utility system to enhance reliability.

In addition to more than 30,000 feet of new lines, crews installed new protection switches and arrestors on all transformers and tap lines, replaced 22 poles and reworked connections on each pole.

The work scope also included extensive tree trimming as well as cleaning and clearing alleys to provide crews with better access to electrical equipment. Vegetation management is a year-round focus area for CPU that has helped reduce outage frequency and duration throughout the electrical system.

“Extensive tree-trimming and clean-up work in the Riverton area will improve reliability and make our response to service calls faster, safer and more efficient,” Boschert said. “Our Bright Future initiative is providing results for customers and ensuring that we make the right investments today to serve Clarksdale’s power needs well into the future.”

Clarksdale Public Utilities is a municipally owned utility serving approximately 6,800 homes and businesses in Clarksdale, Mississippi. Its mission is to safely provide sustainable electric, water and wastewater services in a reliable and courteous manner by well-trained team members, committed to top quality, efficient operations, competitive rates and the vitality of the community.