NV Energy to use helicopters for 'essential fire mitigation work' around Lake Tahoe

Since Monday, NV Energy has been using helicopters to replace power poles and to clear large logs and brush that pose fire hazards to the utility's infrastructure around the Lake Tahoe Basin. The helicopters are needed to navigate steep, mountainous terrain in the area.

The project is expected to last approximately five weeks, according to an NV Energy news release. Motorists, customers, and visitors to the area can expect to see the helicopter working overhead, and logging trucks and other heavy equipment in the area.

There may be brief disruptions to traffic and trails between 7 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. while work is ongoing. There are no anticipated power outages with this work, according to NV Energy.

The work is part of NV Energy’s natural disaster protection plan, also called Power Safe NV. As part of the plan, NV Energy will rebuild a four-mile stretch of power line between Hidden Beach Plaza to Thunderbird Lodge. Additionally, the company will be removing hazardous logs and brush from six sections along Lake Tahoe.

Rebuilding overhead lines and replacing poles creates a more resilient and reliable power supply. Removing hazardous trees and vegetation prevents fire ignitions, creates fuel breaks for first responders, and promotes a healthier forest, the release states.

Roads and trails in the area will be impacted during this time frame to allow for the safe movement of the helicopter and other equipment. Affected areas will include:

Roads:

US-50:
Intermittent closures near Spooner Summit and Glenbrook

Intermittent closures near Spooner Cut-Off Road

State Route 28:

Intermittent and full closure of lanes along State Row 28 in Crystal Bay and between Sand Harbor and Thunderbird Lodge

Lane closure of State Route 28 near Sweetwater Road

Trails

East Shore Bike Path

Bear Mountain Trail

Chimney Beach Trails

Daggett Loop Trail

Tahoe Rim Trail to the East of US-50

Additional customer impacts include temporary displacements for customers whose homes are in the flight path of the helicopter - are being communicated to customers directly by NV Energy.

The work will be completed by NV Energy in collaboration with contractors from Asplundh, VM West and Wasach Electric.

To stay up-to-date and receive notice for upcoming work, be sure to update your contact information at MyAccount at nvenergy.com. You can learn more by visiting nvenergy.com/powersafenv.