BPA plans to rebuild transmission line

The Bonneville Power Administration is inviting members of the public to comment on a proposed transmission line rebuild between Coulee Dam in Grant County and Creston in Lincoln County. Public comments can help identify issues that should be addressed in the project’s Environmental Assessment, a BPA press release said.

The 28-mile Grand Coulee to Creston 115-kV line has aged over the decades since it was built in 1941. Although routine maintenance has been performed on the line, all the wood poles and conductor need to be replaced due to rot and deterioration.

The proposed project would also require developing temporary access roads and improving existing access roads.

The proposed rebuild is part of BPA’s commitment to maintain reliable electrical service and to reduce potential safety risks to the public and work crews. By rebuilding aging transmission lines when needed, BPA preserves the value of its transmission system, much of which is now more than 70 years old.

If BPA chooses to proceed with the proposed project, construction would begin in the summer of 2015.

“Our project team looks forward to talking to local residents,” said project manager Erich Orth. “Feedback from the public guides the development of the EA. Findings from the EA will determine whether BPA will proceed with the project, or whether it is necessary to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement.”

At the public meetings, community members can ask questions, voice concerns and share local knowledge about the potential impacts the EA should address.

Residents who cannot attend the meetings can learn about the proposed transmission upgrade at: http://www.bpa.gov/goto/CouleeCrestonRebuild. Or, send comments to http://www.bpa.gov/comment. Comments can be submitted either online or by phone at 800-622-4519 by Jan. 24 with reference to Coulee to Creston Transmission Line Rebuild Project.