What Happens When the Power Goes Out?

The Impact of Our Aging Utility Systems

When thinking about a sustainable cities and future design, do you consider the impact of our aging utility systems? How do we improve our current systems to keep up with our growth? How do we design these systems in a way that is beautiful and also environmentally responsible? 

These were the questions we needed to solve when working on a new electric substation to replace the existing and overburdened South Street substation. We worked closely with the engineering team led by TRC to develop a design that is appropriate for the visible site adjacent to the Providence River, with planned parks, and the forthcoming pedestrian bridge. This urban river-front substation was subject to design review with input from neighbors and historic groups prior to permitting.