Tuesday's terrorist attack on the World Trade Center (WTC) has had a significant impact on Con Edison's energy infrastructure in lower Manhattan. The fire and subsequent collapse of 7 World Trade Center has permanently damaged two substations located adjacent to the building as well as major electric transmission cables. A third substation located near the South Street Seaport also lost service. Approximately 12,000 customers are currently without electric power.
Electric power was lost to significant portions of lower Manhattan. One area is bordered by Dover Street on the north, the East River to the east, William Street to the west and Wall Street to the south. Another area is bordered by Thomas Street to the north, Broadway on the east, the Hudson River on the west down to the southern tip of Manhattan.
According to Con Edison spokesperson Michael Clendenin, the company is assessing the damage and exploring service restoration options. Temporary facilities are being placed in service to aid in the restoration effort. Workers are trying to isolate the WTC area from the system. However, some areas are still unsafe due to the extensive damage. The Company is currently arranging to obtain generators to help speed the temporary restoration of electric service in lower Manhattan.
There are 140 Con Edison crews (approx. 300 people) working in the devastated area. They are inspecting and testing equipment, preparing work locations and are coordinating efforts with appropriate emergency agencies. Surrounding utilities have called and offered personnel to aid in the restoration effort.
The staff at Transmission & Distribution World would like to offer our deepest sympathies for the atrocities waged on New York City, NY and Washington D.C. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of the victims of this tragedy.
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