Council Greenlights $438,009 for APS Power Conduit Upgrade

The Sedona City Council has reached a significant milestone, unanimously approving a $438,009.33 construction agreement with Arizona Public Service (APS) on March 11. This agreement centers on the Forest Road extension project, which aims to enhance electrical infrastructure in the area.

As outlined in the agreement, APS will undertake the removal of 658 feet of temporary overhead lines along with 1,742 feet of underground lines. They will also install a substantial 6,170 feet of new underground lines and four switching cabinets, a move intended to improve reliability and service accessibility.

Kurt Harris, Director of Public Works, noted the financial considerations involved. He acknowledged that while the temporary installation came in under budget, the permanent installation has exceeded costs slightly. “Overall, this project remains within the power budget we’ve established,” Harris explained.

The agenda for the contract clarified that the proposed work was anticipated and factored into the original project budget. Assistant City Engineer Bob Welch provided further insights, stating that the estimation for APS’s work was around $400,000. Notably, APS’s recognition of manageable rock conditions allowed them to save approximately $170,000 by optimizing the existing trench and reducing the need for additional infrastructure.

This project promises to enhance the power supply for the entire Uptown area while transitioning all utilities underground, thereby improving safety and reducing visual clutter. Harris emphasized the long-term benefits of burying the lines, saying, “It’s putting everything underground as well.”