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Union Square to Portland Street Distribution Project
Why Are We Doing This Project?
This work supports an electrical distribution upgrade, connecting the Prospect Street substation in Somerville to the existing distribution network in Cambridge. The project is one of several designed to improve the reliability of the electric system serving Somerville, Cambridge and the surrounding area.
Where Is This Work Being Done?
This project includes the installation of 20 new underground vaults (manholes) and a new in-street duct bank (a grouping of pipes that house electric lines), spanning approximately one-mile along Prospect and Tremont Streets in Somerville and Cambridge, as well as Harvard and Portland Streets in Cambridge.
* Click to Enlarge
When Is The Work Being Done?
Crews typically work on one portion of the route for about two to four weeks before moving on to the next. This process will continue until the entire project line has been constructed. Crews typically work on a route section about 50–100 feet long at a time.
The duration of work at each location, and the project overall, is subject to change. Pre-existing underground obstructions and unforeseen weather events may cause work delays.
- Start of construction: August 2022
- Partial completion: Q3 2023 (Harvard Street and Portland Street in Cambridge)
- Engineering: Q2 2024 (remaining scope)
- Projected completion date of street work: Q4 2027
*subject to change, pending necessary approvals
About This Project:
- Route Length: Approximately two miles
- Towns: Somerville and Cambridge
- Start of Construction: August 2022
Traffic Management
We coordinate closely with municipal officials on effective traffic management throughout the project. At times, parking restrictions may be necessary and will be clearly posted in advance. Construction crews will occupy a portion of the roadway, typically leaving the remainder of the road passable to motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.
When detours are necessary signage will be clearly posted for motorists. Please monitor the construction updates section below for updates on traffic management.
Construction Updates
We're committed to keeping neighbors, businesses and community members informed on project activities during construction.
There are no planned outages as part of this work, and all Eversource contractors carry proper identification.
Somerville
Prospect Street
Construction activities are progressing north on Prospect Street from Cambridge to Somerville to install underground duct banks.
The work will continue throughout the summer months, progressing towards Webster Avenue. Lane restrictions will be necessary.
Cambridge
Prospect Street
- There is limited remaining work on Prospect Street at the intersection of Broadway. Due to traffic volumes in this area, the work will be scheduled to occur on an upcoming Saturday.
General work hours are Monday through Saturday between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. Parking and lane restrictions will be necessary and clearly posted in advance. Steel road plates will be used to safely secure excavated areas at the end of each work shift.
As construction continues, the police department may modify the traffic management plans based on their judgement and expertise. This includes street closures and traffic detours to ensure public safety. Please exercise caution when approaching active work areas to minimize risks to personal safety and to avoid interfering with construction.
Have Questions?
Keeping the lines of communication open is an important part of our work in your community.
For more information about this project, please call the project information hotline at 1-833-836-0302 or email ProjectInfoMA@eversource.com.