ITC Selects Michigan-based M.J. Electric As Contractor For First Phase Of Thumb Loop Transmission Line Construction

NOVI, Mich., March 2, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- ITC Transmission, a wholly-owned subsidiary of ITC Holdings Corp., the nation's largest independent electricity transmission company, today announced it has selected Iron Mountain, Michigan-based M.J. Electric, LLC, a Quanta Services company (NYSE: PWR), to build the first segment of the Thumb Loop high-voltage transmission line.  Phase 1 of the double-circuit, 345,000-volt (345 kV) line will extend approximately 62 miles from the site of the new Bauer substation in Tuscola Township, southwestern Tuscola County, to the new Rapson substation in Huron County, east of Bad Axe in Sigel Township in the state's Thumb region.

ITC's selection of M.J. Electric was based on a competitive bidding process as well as the company's history of successful project completion for ITC in this very specialized field.

"M.J. Electric has a strong track record in transmission line construction with ITC and throughout the utility industry," said Gregory Ioanidis, president of ITC Michigan.  "They also have a well-earned reputation for on-the-job safety, which is a top priority for ITC and is integral to our culture.  We are pleased that a Michigan company will be a key partner with ITC on this important regional transmission project.  M.J. Electric has completed projects for us safely, on time and on budget in the past and we're confident they will continue that high level of performance on Phase 1 of the Thumb Loop."

"M.J. Electric and ITC share a vision to increase power reliability through safe execution of transmission initiatives, as well as a strong commitment to support the Michigan economy," said Ed Farrington, senior vice president of M.J. Electric.  "In addition to creating approximately 50 positions during peak construction, this project will require the support of ancillary businesses in the area.  We look forward to building upon our eight-year relationship with ITC, applying our transmission expertise to help strengthen the region's power infrastructure."

Line construction on the 62-mile Phase 1 segment will begin in early April and continue into 2013. Crews will drill pole foundations, install steel monopole and lattice structures, and string conductors (wires) between the two substations. ITC has worked with landowners along the route to negotiate easement agreements and establish access points for equipment and materials along the 200-foot-wide transmission corridor. 

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