A Stronger Foundation for the Future — Project Update
If you’ve driven past our Newport office recently, you may have noticed construction of the new headquarters building taking shape. After several months of site preparation, the project is now moving into a more visible phase, with foundation work complete and framing underway.
Why This Project Matters
As shared in our September 2025 issue, Central Lincoln’s existing headquarters was built in 1981 and was not designed to withstand earthquakes. Seismic evaluations show it would likely collapse in a major earthquake and could be severely damaged even in a smaller one.
Like local hospitals, schools, and public safety facilities that have been rebuilt to modern seismic standards, Central Lincoln’s headquarters is a critical facility. It houses essential administrative, operations, engineering, and information technology functions that must remain operational — especially during emergencies.
Supporting Local Work and Businesses
In addition to enhancing utility resiliency, this project is also contributing to the coastal economy. To date, site excavation, underground utilities, and concrete foundation work have been done by local contractors. The general contractor, Lease Crutcher Lewis, has crews living locally, dining at local restaurants, and purchasing materials from area suppliers.
What This Means for Rates
This project is being funded through bonds, which allows costs to be spread over a long period of time. Bond payments are part of Central Lincoln’s normal capital budget and are not tied to a separate rate increase for this project.
Looking Ahead
Construction will continue through 2026, with completion expected in early 2027. Central Lincoln will remain fully operational throughout the process.
Like other critical facilities along the coast, this investment is about preparing for the future — so we can continue providing safe, reliable power to our communities, even during major events.
From our June 2026 Coastlines Newsletter
