Starting next week, residents in northern Hillsborough County, Apollo Beach and Riverview might see low-flying helicopters hovering around Tampa Electric's transmission equipment.
The helicopters will be used in lieu of bucket trucks, and will perform work along sections of two transmission projects.
TECO officials say the helicopters will shorten the time needed to do the work safely, reduce trucks on the road and keep traffic disruptions at a minimum.
They will make multiple trips across the area while new lines are installed.
Residents may hear helicopter noise for a few hours on intermittent weekdays. Work will start on Monday, May 1, and continue for several weeks during daylight hours. Work in Riverview and Apollo Beach is set to begin in the spring.
HeliService LLC, a company based in Sanford, will handle the work.
