AltaLink Flying Structures Into Place for New Power Line Between Calgary and Langdon

CALGARY, ALBERTA--(Marketwired - Feb. 13, 2015) - Starting on Tuesday, February 17, 2015 AltaLink will be using a helicopter between the Calgary and Langdon area for construction on the Langdon to Janet Transmission Project. The work is expected to take two business days, depending on weather conditions.

WHAT: A specialized helicopter will be used to fly sections of transmission structures from assembly yards to designated locations on the right-of-way. Helicopters can reduce the amount of time required to complete work in the area and minimize the amount of construction traffic and workspace area required along the right-of-way. Helicopter are also used to string the new structures with conductor (wire).

During the wire stringing process we will be fusing portions of wire together using implosions. The implosions do not pose a safety risk to surrounding residences; however, they will emit a loud explosive sound. There should not be more than a few loud explosive sounds on days when this work is scheduled to occur.

We are currently scheduled to test implosions at the Langdon Substation February 19-21. The majority of implosions on the project will begin in March.

WHERE: The helicopter activity will occur just north of 114 Avenue SE (it turns into Township Road 232) between the eastern edge of Calgary and the Langdon Substation southwest of Langdon.

WHEN: Tuesday, February 17 and Wednesday, February 18, 2015 (approximately 8:30 am to 5:00 pm) *The helicopter activity is only expected to take two business days, but the schedule can change depending on the weather. Currently the plan is to begin the helicopter work on the morning of February 17. If the weather cooperates, we expect to be complete by the end of the day on February 18. If the weather conditions do not allow us to begin on Tuesday, we may need to reschedule the work for another time during the week.

WHO: Peter Brodsky, Manager of External Communications at AltaLink will be available for phone interviews.

For additional information or to schedule an interview, please contact Amanda Sadleir at 403-585-7289 or email Amanda.Sadleir@altalink.ca.

AltaLink's transmission system efficiently delivers electricity to 85% of Albertans. Dedicated to meeting the growing need for electricity, AltaLink connects Albertans to renewable, reliable and low-cost power. With a commitment to community and environment, AltaLink is ensuring the transmission system will support Albertans' quality of life for years to come. Learn more at www.altalink.ca.