BPUB to Remove Unauthorized Objects from Utility Poles

The Brownsville Public Utilities Board (BPUB) is reminding the community that attaching unauthorized items, like signs, notices, boards or similar items, is prohibited per the city of Brownsville’s municipal code.

Unauthorized attachments endanger BPUB’s lineworkers. There is an increasing concern over incidents where damage to protective gear is caused by sharp objects like nails, staples and tacks.

The financial cost of replacing personal protective equipment is substantial, but concern for the safety and wellbeing of BPUB staff is even greater. Even minor damage can significantly increase the risk of severe injury or electrocution.

Additionally, attaching objects to utility poles also compromises the poles’ structural integrity. Repeated punctures and added weight can weaken the poles, increasing the risk of pole failure and potential power outages.

“The safety of our employees and the community at large remains our top priority,” BPUB General Manager & CEO Marilyn D. Gilbert said. “We strongly urge the community to refrain from attaching any objects to our utility poles. Doing so poses direct threat to our employees’ health and compromises the reliability of the utility services we all depend on.”

BPUB crews will actively remove and dispose of any objects found on utility poles throughout the city.

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