GCEP Project Update

GCEP Project Update - June

Hello,

Thank you for your continued interest in the Greater Cambridge Energy Program!

GCEP Receives Approval from the Energy Facilities Siting Board

On June 27th, the Energy Facilities Siting Board (EFSB) hosted a public meeting to listen to comments, deliberate, and vote on a previously issued Tentative Decision that recommended approval of the Greater Cambridge Energy Program (GCEP). The EFSB voted at the public meeting to approve the project, with only minor amendments to the Tentative Decision.

The approval allows for the construction of a new underground substation in Kendall Square along with five underground transmission routes - four preferred routes (Brighton East, Brighton West, Kendall, and Putnam) as well as a hybrid alternative route defined as a primary route (Somerville). These routes, which are illustrated below, are consistent with what was reviewed during prior public hearings and construction could begin in late-2024 / early-2025. We look forward to continuing to work closely together and keeping you informed as the program moves forward.

Additional information can be found on the Siting Board’s website: Greater Cambridge Energy Program | Mass.gov

Field Observations Continue in Somerville

Our contractor crews continued with field tests or "test pits" along the proposed GCEP routes to further engineering efforts. Here is a summary of progress in Somerville from activities performed this month and upcoming work:

Somerville:

Charlestown Street - north of Windsor Place and between Linden Street and Allen Street (Complete)
South Street - between Windsor Street and Medford Street (Ongoing)

Test pit markings on South Street.

Vacuum excavator used to remove soils.

Test pit recently restored on South Street.

*The activity will continue over the next several months at various locations in Cambridge, Somerville, and Allston/Brighton. Locations will be promoted to nearby property owners in advance of new activities commencing.

Work Hours

Typical construction hours field test activities are Monday to Friday between 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Some work may be conducted outside of these hours based on traffic volumes and will require municipal approval.