BPA proposal for new high voltage line draws heat

A Bonneville Power Administration proposal to build a new high-voltage electrical transmission line across one of several possible corridors between Castle Rock, Wash., and Troutdale, Ore., is drawing heated comment.

Hundreds of concerned residents turned out for six open house meetings, and some complained that the comment period was too short. Bonneville representatives told The Columbian of Vancouver on Wednesday that the agency will extend the comment period to Dec. 14.

U.S. Sens. Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell and U.S. Rep. Brian Baird have been hearing from constituents concerned about the project's potential impact on their property. In a joint letter Tuesday, the lawmakers had asked that the comment period be extended.

The transmission line would be carried along towers the size of 15-story buildings. BPA project manager Mark Korsness says Bonneville will compensate landowners for easements along the route it ultimately chooses, but won't compensate neighbors for possible property devaluation.

BPA officials say their transmission grid has become increasingly congested and there is a real need for the new line. The Columbian says construction wouldn't begin until 2012 at the earliest.

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Information from: The Columbian, http://www.columbian.com