The Friendswood Downtown Economic Development Corporation learned that relocating overhead power lines underground along FM518 could cost approximately $10 million for electrical infrastructure alone, with additional costs for communication lines and business service connections.
City officials revealed during the January 14 meeting that Texas New Mexico Power (TNMP) estimates costs at roughly $1 million per 1,000 linear feet of electrical line relocation. With downtown Friendswood spanning 7,000 linear feet on one side, the electrical infrastructure costs alone could reach $7-10 million.
“The very large, broad working estimate is anywhere between $8.36 and $8.76 million for the full relocation,” reported a city official, noting these figures should be taken “with a grain of salt” given their preliminary nature. The estimate does not include costs for relocating communication lines or connecting individual businesses to the underground system.
Board members expressed concerns about the project’s feasibility given current budget constraints. “At a $10 million estimate, does the board really have the will to pursue this particular project with our budget and income?” one member questioned during discussions.
Officials noted that while underground relocation remains a desired goal, several challenges exist beyond costs. These include securing necessary easements, as underground facilities cannot simply be placed under sidewalks or roads without dedicated easements. The city is continuing discussions with TNMP to determine if underground placement is technically feasible in all locations.
The board indicated it may need to explore alternative approaches, such as focusing initially on relocating communication lines while deferring the more expensive power line project. “I think we need to continue with this process until we really get to a bottom line,” noted one board member, while acknowledging that even communication line relocation faces state law barriers.
City staff will continue working with TNMP and consultants to develop more detailed proposals and explore potential phasing options for the project.
