A Marquette Board of Light and Power worker rises in an aerial lift to expect a conductor suspected of over heating. (Journal file photo)

MARQUETTE – The Marquette Board of Light & Power has announced that utility work will be taking place along various roadsides throughout the summer months. Crews will be working to upgrade and maintain critical infrastructure to ensure safe and reliable service for all residents.

Crews will also be working on behalf of the MBLP on an extended project to increase the reliability and resiliency of its system. The construction of this project will be taking place along the roadside of Marquette County Road 480, M-553 (South McClellan Avenue), and Division Street throughout the summer.

To protect both workers and drivers, MBLP officials ask the public to remain vigilant when approaching work zones. Slow down, move over when possible and avoid distractions while driving near utility crews.

“Summer is a busy time for infrastructure improvements and we want to make sure our workers return home safely each day,” said Tim Kopacz, director of distribution. “We’re asking drivers to do their part by staying alert, putting away their phones and showing patience and caution around roadside work areas.”

Work may be taking place during both daytime and evening hours and while every effort will be made to minimize disruptions, MBLP officials say temporary lane closures or reduced speeds may be necessary in certain areas.

Michigan’s Move Over law requires motorists to slow down and move over for stationary authorized vehicles with flashing, rotating, or oscillating lights activated.

Here are some common sense safety tips for drivers

• Slow down when approaching work zones.

• Move over when you see utility or emergency vehicles stopped on the

roadside.

• Avoid distractions like texting, calling, or eating while driving.

• Watch for signage and follow flagger instructions when present.

Bud Sargent can be reached at 906-228-2500, extension 544. His email address is bsargent@miningjournal.net.