The Task Force will examine the financial, technical and policy feasibility of undergrounding utility cables in light of the ultimate goal of the task force: to bring about the burial of all utility wires in the Newton; and the immediate goal: to reduce the proliferation of overhead wires and cables and mitigate the negative impact of the existing overhead lines.

Develop ideas, strategies and processes for undergrounding cables in Newton, both on individual projects (streets, neighborhoods or village centers) and throughout the city.

Work with citizens and officials in other Massachusetts communities to identify legislation needed to facilitate the process of placing utilities underground.

Develop and maintain a body of information on the technology and economics of undergrounding and the experiences of governmental entities elsewhere.

Advise city officials, business and community leaders on both individual undergrounding projects and on long-range plans for Newton.

Develop and implement a public information program to make citizens aware of both the costs and negative environmental impacts of overhead utility lines and the advantages of undergrounding.

Recommend to city officials steps that might be taken to begin the task of undergrounding.

Keep abreast of federal and state laws that impact the process of undergrounding, and of new technologies that may have an impact on cost and feasibility.