Central Fort WayneTransmission Improvements Project

Indiana Michigan Power (I&M) representatives plan power grid upgrades to improve electric reliability for customers in Fort Wayne.

The Central Fort Wayne Transmission Improvements Project involves:

• Upgrading equipment at Melita Substation, off Melita Street.
• Upgrading equipment at Fulton Substation, off West Superior Street.
• Upgrading equipment at Spy Run Substation, off Elizabeth Street.
• Rebuilding about 1.5 miles of 69-kV transmission line between Melita, Fulton and Spy Run substations.
• Relocating about 1 mile of 69-kV transmission line.

The 60-year-old transmission line consists of deteriorating wooden poles that no longer meet operational standards and requires updating. Rebuilding the line strengthens the local power grid and improves the line's operational performance by reducing the need for frequent maintenance. The upgrades reduce the likelihood of power outages and improve recovery of service in the event outages occur.

Company officials expect construction to begin in early 2024 and conclude in spring 2026.

September 2022: I&M representatives invite the community to attend an in-person open house from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, October 11, at Promenade Park - Park Foundation Pavilion, located at 202 West Superior Street in Fort Wayne. Free parking is available at 301 West Superior Street. You can view detailed maps and talk with team members about the project. There is no formal presentation, so you can arrive at any time during the event.

At I&M, safety is our priority. Due to COVID-19, I&M staff members plan to wear face coverings and practice social distancing at the open house to ensure safety for you and our staff. We will provide masks and hand sanitizer at the open house. We ask that if you are experiencing fever, cough, body aches or other COVID-19 symptoms, please stay home for the safety of your neighbors and our staff.

If you are feeling unwell, you may visit the virtual open house to access information, view an interactive map, enter our virtual open house and submit comments.