NYPA seeks more money for $880 M grid project
Facing rising construction costs, NYPA requests $43 M in additional funding to complete Smart Path Connect transmission upgrades across Northern New York.
Image for illustrative purposes
USA, New York: The New York Power Authority (NYPA) is asking for an extra $43 M to complete its Smart Path Connect initiative, a major project aimed at upgrading more than 160 km (100 mi) of transmission lines in Northern New York.
According to the Watertown Daily Times, the request would add to the project’s previously approved $880 M budget. The upgrade focuses on enhancing grid reliability and supporting the region’s clean energy goals through modernised infrastructure.
NYPA Vice President for Project and Construction Management, Timothy Poe, said the additional funds are necessary due to unexpected construction expenses. These include the impact of inflation, supply chain disruptions, and tariffs introduced during President Donald Trump’s administration, which have driven up the cost of a key component sourced internationally.
Smart Path Connect involves two major segments: 72 km (45 mi) of line upgrades between Massena and Clinton in Clinton County, and 88 km (55 mi) stretching from Croghan to Marcy, located just north of Utica. These improvements are intended to increase transmission capacity and better integrate renewable energy sources into the power grid.
The additional funding request highlights ongoing cost pressures affecting large-scale infrastructure projects nationwide, especially those dependent on global materials and equipment.
Source: NCPR
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