Maine utilities sending 37 line crews south

AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) — Maine Gov. Paul LePage has declared an end to a state of emergency, and three utilities that completed power restoration dispatched 37 line crews to help other states.

LePage noted that Central Maine Power was assisted by Canadian crews in restoring electricity to 165,000 customers who lost power during Superstorm Sandy and said, "Now it's time to focus on those who need our help."

Central Maine Power said Thursday that it's sending 28 two-person repair crews and bucket trucks, along with support personnel and equipment. They'll be assisting Connecticut Power & Light.

Bangor Hydro Electric Co. and Maine Public Service Co., meanwhile, said they were sending nine crews and support personnel. The crews — seven from Bangor Hydro and two from Maine Public Service — arrived Thursday in Kingston, R.I.