Years of neglected maintenance have left one of Quincy’s most critical electrical facilities in alarming condition, with failed safety equipment, deteriorating transformers and a control building that officials say is literally rotting away.
Now, city leaders are moving toward a $500,000 overhaul of the Southside electrical substation, warning that a major equipment failure could leave thousands of customers without power.
CRA officials proposed allocating up to $500,000 in redevelopment funds for the Southside improvements after previous attempts to secure grants and legislative funding proved unsuccessful.
The funding would come from the CRA rather than the city’s regular utility budget.
Officials cautioned that construction estimates are several years old and that updated bids will determine the actual cost.
The CRA board voted unanimously, 4-0, to approve funding ceilings for several redevelopment priorities, including the Southside substation.