ALBUQERQUE, NM – PNM crews joined the City of Albuquerque this week to clear hundreds of objects from overhead power and communication lines surrounding the New Mexico State Fairgrounds.
According to PNM, crews removed a variety of items hanging from the lines, including numerous pairs of shoes and even a pair of squash.
Utility officials say objects thrown onto power lines can create safety hazards for line workers and increase the risk of outages for nearby customers. The concern is especially significant during emergency situations when crews must work quickly to restore service.
“Our crews work hard every day to keep the electric system safe and reliable, and removing objects from overhead lines is an important part of that work,” said Mike Prescott, PNM’s Director of Transmission and Distribution.
Mayor Tim Keller also encouraged residents to keep items off utility lines, saying shoes belong on people’s feet, not on power lines.
PNM thanked the Albuquerque Police Department and the city’s Solid Waste Management Department for assisting with the cleanup effort.
