DI works to improve electrical service

DAUPHIN ISLAND, Ala. - Dauphin Island residents are no strangers to power outages. A big storm could take power out for days. But Monday, there was no storm. Other than bulldozers and dump trucks moving sand off the roads, things were very calm.

Residents didn't have power because crews from Alabama Power were working on a project that will improve electrical service to the residents of the island.

"We only have one feed going to Dauphin Island. So when we have problems, customers are out for a while because we have to get a barge together or a boat sometimes, get equipment loaded up on the barge before we can even begin our work. So it's a lot more difficult to make repairs in the water than it would be from the side of the road," said Bernie Fogarty with Alabama Power.

The power outage affected everyone on Dauphin Island, including faculty and students at Dauphin Island Elementary. But for them, Monday wasn't much different than any other school day, with the exception of a little less technology.

"We did prepare by saying, 'If you need any copies or if you need anything for next week, today is the day to do it.' We did that on Friday, and prepared for the week. We've lifted the blinds in every classroom so the students are able to see and continue with their day. We obviously don't have any computers today so it's a little bit different day in that aspect but, we're doing fine," said Principal Kathy Gallop.

Many students got to eat lunch outside, and got to spend a little more time on the playground. The students didn't mind the power outage at all.

"The kids are having a great time, they think it's really neat that we don't have the power on. They wish it wasn't on every day," said Gallop.

Fogarty told FOx10 the power was restored to the Island late Monday afternoon. He says the intention is to be finished by the end of February. Then, when there are power outages on the island, they won't last as long as they have in the past.

Fogarty says Alabama Power started the project a month ago. So far, nine wooden poles have been replaced with concrete poles. Monday, they replaced wire attached to the poles that are in the Mississippi Sound.