PG in pilot program for underground power lines

Big changes to protect our area from power outages during storms are being made in Punta Gorda, parts of Charlotte County, North Port and Venice, announced FPL.

In Punta Gorda over the past couple of months, utility trucks have been replacing wooden poles with concrete ones, and other changes throughout the area are being made as well, said FPL spokesperson Marie Bertot.

Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.

FPL maintains 75,000 miles of power lines

60% are overhead

40% are underground

During Hurricane Irma in 2017 underground power lines performed 85% better than overhead pole lines

Log In

Keep it Clean. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd,racist or sexually-oriented language.PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK. Don't Threaten. Threats of harming anotherperson will not be tolerated.Be Truthful. Don't knowingly lie about anyoneor anything.Be Nice. No racism, sexism or any sort of -ismthat is degrading to another person.Be Proactive. Use the 'Report' link oneach comment to let us know of abusive posts.Share with Us. We'd love to hear eyewitnessaccounts, the history behind an article.