Julian celebrates removal of overhead lines

Utility poles that once lined Main Street in Julian are gone along with their array of overhead lines.

In a joint project between the County of San Diego, the Community of Julian, San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E), AT&T and Cable USA, the 40 wooden poles have been replaced with 11 old-fashioned-style light fixtures. The lines they once carried have been buried.

The idea to move the overhead lines underground and improve the appearance of the mountain community began a quarter century ago. The county’s Department of Public Works (DPW) worked with the Julian community to turn it into a real project. DPW coordinated the project with the utility companies.

The absence of the poles and overhead lines enhances the appearance of Julian and the addition of the new light fixtures greatly improves traffic safety, community leaders agree.

“We are very pleased to be a part of this project that will greatly enhance the look of this beautiful town,” said County Supervisor Dianne Jacob. “The undergrounding of these lines and the removal of the unsightly overhead wires and cables restores a genuine historic look to this quaint town.”

The traditional “last pole ceremony” to celebrate the completion of the project was held on June 19 in downtown Julian at the intersection of Washington and Main streets.

On any given weekend, hundreds of Southern California residents and tourists flock to Julian, famous for its pies and quaint shops.