Successful Implementation of a SkyWrap Solution

Project Overview

Riggs Distler was contracted to perform environmental matting and heavy civil services in support of a SkyWrap project to upgrade fiber optic cables. The SkyWrap solution is a retro-fit method for installing fiber optic cables on overhead power lines, and it is designed to be small and lightweight, minimizing the additional load on the overhead line conductors, poles, and towers. This installation technique allows for quick and cost-effective deployment, increasing network fiber capacity with minimal disruption to electricity supply services.

The Riggs Distler Envionmental Construction and Matting group was responsible for installing matted access roads, work pads, and environmental controls to enable the energy client’s crews to install the SkyWrap to the existing 115kV lines and complete six structure replacements in the towns of Millbury, Sutton, Grafton, Upton and Milford, MA. Riggs Distler also constructed and refreshed stone access roads and restored the site at the project’s completion.

Challenges Overcome

The project presented several challenges, including the terrain which featured various elevation changes that required additional foresight when planning work pad builds. Additionally, portions of the right-of-way ran adjacent to the Milford Rail Trail, a pedestrian and cycling path, which presented safety challenges. To minimize potential adverse impacts on wetlands, construction matting was used along access routes when crossing wetlands.

The client’s shifting priorities, a common occurrence in projects of this size, frequently resulted in abrupt changes to the schedule and resources. However, Riggs Distler’s agility enabled us to accommodate these requests and maintain progress toward completing the project on time.