Trasmission lines aerial work

FOUNTAIN CITY, Wis. (AP) Workers are using helicopters to string nearly 50 miles of power lines in Wisconsin as part of a $2.2 billion project.

Utilities companies say the CapX2020 project would update the power grid and connect eastern cities with wind energy resources. The approved Wisconsin portion would deliver power from Hampton, Minn., to a planned substation in Holmen, Wis.

A safety manager for the project says that helicopters are the most efficient way to string transmission lines that hang high above the ground – easier than using cranes.

About 3 miles have been strung so far. The helicopters are also being used to attach 1,600 yellow plastic spirals so birds don’t collide with the wires. Workers sit on a platform that hangs from the helicopter.