JULIAN, Calif. (KGTV) -- The threat of wildfires in Julian may be going down. SDG&E is installing underground power lines to help mitigate the fire risk.
The project is also expected to keep critical facilities open during pre-emptive power outages.
Not only will the work help prevent fires, it may also help keep power running when Santa Ana winds start picking up.
Crews were hard at work Tuesday putting underground power lines near State Route 78 in Julian.
RELATED: City of San Diego moves forward with undergrounding more power lines
The project is part of SDG&E’s effort to reduce the risk of wildfires and shutting down power during windy weather.
It will help keep the power running to places like Julian’s schools, post office, library and their Cal Fire station.
Phase one of the project is being done along Cape Horn Avenue. Many homes and facilities have lost power there during shutoffs in the past.
While residents in Julian were happy about the changes, they know it won’t happen overnight.
RELATED: Map: City of San Diego underground utility lines
“To put all those lines underground is gonna be a major undertaking,” said resident Michael Lang.
Phase two of the project will add underground lines along the 78. Currently, there is no timeline on when the project will begin.
