RENO, Nev. (KOLO) – NV Energy says it will conduct firefighting work in the Tahoe Basin using helicopters.

The work includes replacing utility poles and clearing large logs and brush that pose a fire hazard to infrastructure in the Tahoe Basin. Helicopters will be deployed due to the steep, mountainous terrain in the area.

From October 14, which will last about five weeks, people in the area will be able to see helicopters working overhead and heavy equipment in the area. NV Energy reports that there may be brief traffic disruptions between 7 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. while the work is underway. No power outages are expected as a result of this work.

NV Energy will rebuild a four-mile power line between Hidden Beach Plaza and Thunderbird Lodge as part of their disaster protection plan. Hazardous logs and brush from six sections along Lake Tahoe will also be removed.

Areas affected include U.S. Highway 50, which will see periodic closures near Spooner Summit and Glenbrook and near the Spooner Cut-Off Road. State Route 28 will also be affected as lanes along SR28 in Crystal Bay and between Sand Harbor and Thunderbird Lodge will be intermittently and completely closed. There will also be a lane closure of SR28 near Sweetwater Road.

Trails are also expected to be affected, namely the East Shore Bike Path, Bear Mountain Trail, Chimney Beach Trails, Daggett Loop Trail and the Tahoe Rim Trail east of US50.

NV Energy says temporary relocations for customers whose homes are in the helicopter’s flight path will be communicated to customers.

Copyright 2024 KOLO. All rights reserved.