Sumter Utilities served as a subcontractor for Irby Construction on this emergency repair project along the Indian River Waterway in Melbourne, Florida. The project involved specialized barge-based operations to access and upgrade 17 transmission structure locations on a line originally constructed in 1983.

Two dedicated Sumter crews performed time and materials (T&M) work to implement several critical upgrades. The scope included replacing outdated bell insulators with modern polymer alternatives, installing new through bolts to enhance structural integrity, and adding reflective strips essential for safety in navigable waterways. The team also reinforced existing infrastructure by installing new down guy wires and guy plate attachments for brace poles. Additionally, crews installed steel bands to secure concrete poles to their concrete pier foundations, ensuring long-term stability in the challenging waterway environment.

The barge-based approach allowed our teams to access these difficult locations while minimizing environmental impact to the sensitive Indian River ecosystem. Through careful coordination and specialized equipment, Sumter successfully completed these essential reliability improvements to maintain power delivery in the Melbourne area.

Sumter Utilities served as the prime contractor for this 4.62-mile transmission line rebuild, converting wood H-frame structures to single pole steel for Dominion Energy South Carolina. The project required extensive environmental protection measures across delineated wetlands.

When estimating this project, Sumter had a choice: pay a subcontractor to properly manage the matting, or leverage partnerships within Quanta to self-perform the matting element of the job and reduce expenses. Ultimately, Sumter stepped up to new challenges, and managed the installation of 5,300 specialized timber mats with help from B&N Clearing, a sister company. Crews handled all matting operations including hauling, installation, repositioning, and removal with support from substation teams and Lee Electrical.

Ultimately, Sumter finished the project well below budget, and with a new skillset to add to our resume. This infrastructure modernization will improve power reliability for Dominion Energy while demonstrating Sumter’s commitment to environmental responsibility in sensitive ecological areas.

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Sumter Utilities was contracted by Dominion Energy Southeast (SC) to rebuild 20+ miles of 115kV single circuit transmission line. Additionally, Sumter was to convert a 115kV line from single wood poles to a single steel pole, double-circuit bundle configuration. Located in the areas of Yemassee, Beaufort, and Lady’s Island, South Carolina, the project was nestled within low-lying wetland and tidal areas, presenting substantial terrain challenges. Additionally, Sumter Utilities was tasked with installing vibratory caisson foundations on all the structures, some driven to depths of fifty feet in the ground. By utilizing matting in tidal areas, collaborating effectively with a variety of subcontractors, and pivoting the plan after a vibratory caisson refusal, Sumter rose to the challenge, driving the project forward to success.

The Sumter Utilities team demonstrated exceptional performance for this $22M project. As the primary contractor, Sumter met the schedule with zero power interruptions and zero injuries. Transmission and distribution joint efforts made this project successful for everyone involved, and Dominion Energy was very pleased with Sumter’s ability to deliver.