Speak Up Newport forum will focus on undergrounding utilities

Undergrounding utilities, which has sparked heated debate between residents in Newport Beach neighborhoods, will be discussed during Wednesday’s Speak Up Newport forum.

City Engineer Mark Vukojevic will explain the process of placing utility lines underground and the cost of the project for homeowners.

“Armed with this information, residents will be able to form their own opinions as to the benefit or loss to their property value, and their neighborhoods,” the invitation states.

Proponents of the undergrounding effort in portions of Corona del Mar, Newport Heights and the Balboa Peninsula have started petitions to place utility lines underground in an effort to modernize their aging neighborhoods, they say.

The cost, which has been estimated at roughly $25,000 per house, is the point of contention for those who oppose the effort.

Speak Up Newport will run from 5:30 to 7 p.m. in the Community Room at the Newport Beach Civic Center, 100 Civic Center Drive. There is no charge to attend.

—By Hannah Fry