March 11, 2009
Media Contact: Chris Gleason, Community & Media Services manager, (253) 223-2293
Tacoma Power pole fire causes temporary closure to part of Highway 16
A Tacoma Power utility pole fire occurring near Cheney Stadium next to Highway 16 has caused temporary traffic slowdown on Highway 16. Tacoma Power crews are at the scene and have brought in a crane to stabilize the pole to make it safe for traffic to drive underneath. The Tacoma Fire Department is also at the scene putting out the fire.
West bound lanes on Highway 16 are now open and one eastbound lane will be open shortly. The highway should be completely reopened within the hour once the pole has been stabilized.
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About Tacoma Power
Tacoma Power serves 165,000 customers in Tacoma, University Place, Fircrest and portions of Fife, Lakewood, Federal Way, Steilacoom, Fort Lewis, McChord Air Force Base and other portions of Pierce County.