In the summer of 2022, Peninsula Environmental undertook a significant project for the City of Newberry, MI, which involved inspecting, testing, and mapping 2,500 utility poles. The project aimed to identify potential hazards and inefficiencies in the poles, ensuring the safety and reliability of the utility network for the community.
Peninsula Environmental is a leading environmental consulting firm, specializing in environmental assessments, remediation, and restoration services. With over 20 years of experience, the company has established a reputation for its expertise in environmental regulations and best practices. The project in Newberry was an excellent opportunity for the company to apply its knowledge and skills to a critical infrastructure system, supporting the community’s needs.
The scope of the project required Peninsula Environmental to perform visual inspections, sound testing, and mapping of the utility poles. The team consisted of several professionals with different backgrounds and skills, including environmental engineers, technicians, and mapping experts. Together, they worked closely with the City of Newberry’s utility department to ensure that the project objectives were met efficiently and effectively.
The first stage of the project involved a thorough inspection of each utility pole. This process aimed to identify any signs of wear and tear, cracking, warping, or decay. The team used a range of tools and equipment to ensure that no detail was overlooked, such as binoculars, specialized micro-drilling technology. Diagnostic data on the poles, the results of the testing, GIS location and photos were collected with iPads and stored in a database. Any deficiencies or hazards identified were documented and reported to the City of Newberry’s utility department, allowing them to prioritize repairs and maintenance efforts.
The next stage of the project involved sound testing of the utility poles. This process aimed to identify any internal defects or anomalies that were not visible during the visual inspection. The team used a specialized device that emitted a sound wave into the pole and measured the wave’s return time and strength. By analyzing the data collected, the team could identify any potential issues, such as rot or termite infestation, that could compromise the structural integrity of the pole.
The final stage of the project involved mapping the location of each utility pole. This process aimed to provide an accurate and comprehensive record of the utility network for the City of Newberry. The team used state-of-the-art GPS equipment to track the location of each pole, as well as other relevant information, such as pole height and type. The data collected was then integrated into a geographic information system (GIS), allowing the City of Newberry’s utility department to manage and analyze the information easily.
Throughout the project, Peninsula Environmental demonstrated its commitment to safety, quality, and efficiency. The team adhered to strict safety protocols, such as wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and following industry best practices for pole-climbing. The team also prioritized quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC), ensuring that all data collected was accurate and reliable. Finally, the team maintained open communication with the City of Newberry’s utility department, providing regular updates and feedback to ensure that the project was meeting their expectations.
The project’s outcomes were significant for the City of Newberry. By identifying potential hazards and inefficiencies in the utility network, the city’s utility department was able to prioritize repairs and maintenance efforts effectively. This process not only enhanced the safety and reliability of the utility network but also contributed to cost savings and improved energy efficiency. The mapping data collected by Peninsula Environmental also provided the City of Newberry with a valuable asset, enabling them to manage and analyze the utility network’s information more efficiently.
In conclusion, the project carried out by Peninsula Environmental for the City of Newberry in the summer of 2022 was a significant undertaking that aimed to enhance the safety and reliability of the utility network. The project’s success was due to the company’s expertise, professionalism, and commitment to quality, safety, and efficiency.
