Austin launches downtown duct bank upgrade beneath Lady Bird Lake
(UI) — Austin Energy has begun work on the Waller Beach Duct Bank Upgrade, an underground electric infrastructure project intended to improve long-term power reliability in downtown Austin as energy demand continues to grow.
The project will route electrical circuits from the Rainey Street Substation beneath parkland along Lady Bird Lake between Brazos and Trinity streets, connecting the facilities to Austin Energy's downtown distribution network.
Construction activities began in May with site preparation, traffic control installation and tree removal. Current work includes excavation and underground utility installation within the designated construction area.
Austin Energy said the duct bank project is designed to strengthen service reliability for downtown customers and accommodate future growth in one of the city's fastest-developing areas.
A planned power outage is scheduled for June 22 as part of reliability-related upgrades associated with the project. The outage is expected to begin at 3 a.m. and last approximately two hours, potentially affecting portions of downtown Austin and areas south of Lady Bird Lake.
Project officials said construction scheduling is also being coordinated with an ongoing Austin Water emergency wastewater repair project. Future phases are expected to include a temporary reroute of portions of the Ann and Roy Butler Trail, with additional details to be released before any trail closures or detours occur.
Work is expected to continue primarily during weekday daytime hours, with occasional weekend construction activities if approved by the city.
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