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Central Phoenix Line Upgrade
aps
We are upgrading a critical underground transmission line in central Phoenix – the “backbone” of the metro Phoenix 230kV transmission system. This upgrade supports reliability for customers as it replaces a line that is reaching the end of its design life. This project also expands the capacity of the line to support customers’ growing energy needs.
The first phase of this upgrade began serving customers in summer 2024. Additional segments of this line will be upgraded in the coming years. To see how phase one of the line was safely upgraded, watch this video.
Project Phases:
- Phase 1: Lincoln Street South Substation to Country Club Substation:
- Completed 2024
- Phase 2: Country Club Substation to Meadowbrook Substation:
- Preparations for this phase of the upgrade are scheduled to begin in fall 2025 with work taking place at select manholes and at the Meadowbrook Substation. If work is scheduled to take place near you, you will receive a notification prior to construction.
- Additional construction is scheduled to start in late 2026 and will take place in various locations along the project route through spring 2027.
- Phase 3: Meadowbrook Substation to Sunnyslope Substation:
- Upgrade planned for fall 2028-spring 2029
- Phase 4: Country Club Substation to Grand Terminal:
- Expected in 2030
This page will be updated during each phase of the project.
Project Map
Community Updates:
If work is scheduled to take place near you, you will receive a notification prior to construction. Message boards will also be placed in advance of work when there are significant restrictions or road closures.
Outreach Documents:
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is this project important?
This segment of the system is characterized as the “backbone” of the metro Phoenix 230kV system. It has been in the ground for approximately 50 years and is reaching the end of its design life and capacity. To provide ongoing reliable service to our customers, the system needs to be upgraded to increase capacity and replace aging infrastructure.
How did APS identify this project?
APS regularly monitors and evaluates the system and infrastructure to ensure we can provide reliable service now and into the future. This project was identified because the transmission line was aging and the need for additional power has increased.
How will the underground pipeline be accessed?
The underground cables and pipeline will be accessed through various manholes along the project route. Contractor crews and equipment will be located at various manholes to remove or feed the cable through. There will be traffic control in impacted areas, including street closures in some cases. The work will move between sites, typically staying in one location for a few weeks at a time.
Photo courtesy of Ferreira UTEC
Will there be a power outage?
No, we do not anticipate outages since the power will be rerouted to other circuits during construction. If there is a need for an outage, affected customers will be notified in advance. The notification will include the date and duration of the planned outage.
Will there be any digging or excavation?
Based on the results of robotic monitoring equipment, there should only be excavation if it becomes necessary to replace segments of the existing underground pipeline.
Is this process safe for nearby residents and businesses?
Safety is our top priority – for the community, for our employees and for the contractors we work with. The lines we’re working on will be deenergized, meaning they will not have electric current running through them during the time of removal and installation.
