U.P. linemen en route to Florida to assist in expected power restorations

ESCANABA — Hurricane Irma is getting closer and closer to the Coast of Florida where it’s expected to wreak havoc of catastrophic proportions. And some of our own are going down to lend a helping hand.

A two-man line crew from the City of Escanaba Electric Department will leave at noon Friday ahead of the hurricane to aid in power restorations that are expected to result from the storm. The crew will be working with fellow lineman from Traverse City Light and Power, Lansing Board of Water and Light, Lowell, Niles and Sturgis.

This isn’t the first time the city has extended its help to those in need. In the last five years, crews have been sent to assist Cherryland Electric Co-op, Presque Isle Electric and Gas Co-op and Thumb Electric Co-op with restorations.