Baltimore advances takeover of underground conduit network
(UI) — Baltimore will assume control of its century-old underground conduit system in January 2027, CBS News reports, as the city's long-standing operating agreement with Baltimore Gas & Electric (BGE) expires, marking a major transition in the management of critical underground utility infrastructure.
The conduit network carries electrical, telecommunications and fiber-optic cables beneath city streets. Baltimore officials say bringing the system under city management will support long-term infrastructure modernization, improve maintenance and enhance public safety. A new conduit division within the Baltimore Department of Transportation will oversee operations.
As part of the transition, the city has proposed increasing conduit rental rates from $2.20 per linear foot to help cover operating, maintenance and modernization costs. BGE has argued the increase is excessive and warned the higher fees could ultimately be passed on to utility customers.
City leaders contend the proposed rate adjustment reflects rising operating costs and the investment needed to modernize the aging underground network. According to CBS News, the transition follows years of discussion over the future management of one of the nation's oldest municipal conduit systems.
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