BERN TOWNSHIP, Pa.- A major power project is underway in Bern Township.

A helicopter and other workers helped put some key pieces in place on Monday as part of a new transmission substation.

“The more wind, the harder it becomes,” said Steve Stadelmeyer, the director of transmission operations for IB Abel.

It’s all in a day’s work for the pilot manning the aircraft that Stadelmeyer communicates with from the ground.

The helicopter helped string wires from pole to pole which makes the workload a lot more efficient.

“It’s a whole lot easier to do it aerially versus manually,” Stadelmeyer explained. “For a typical run like this where you had to cross 183, distribution stuff like that as well, you’re probably looking at 2 to 3 days versus what took 2 to 3 hours.”

“The blocks themselves actually have what they call fly arms and that’s helpful for him, especially with the wind today to be able to guide everything into the roller and then make sure it’s captive so he can move to the next structure,” said Stadelmeyer.

The project by Met-Ed’s parent company, FirstEnergy, is designed to enhance the electrical infrastructure in the region so customers experience fewer outages for shorter time periods. It will also help foster growth.

“This particular project meets the energy demands of this particular area,” said First Energy spokesperson, Lauren Siburkis. “In particular, the airport. This was a project that has been advocated for by the Berks County Commissioners and local development agencies.”

Intermittent road closures happened throughout the day as work was underway as a precaution.

“We really do try to minimize the impact on our local communities and assure you that this work will provide real benefits once it’s completed,” added Siburkis.

 

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