Appalachian Power plans infrastructure upgrades in Wayne County
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Appalachian Power Company, a subsidiary of American Electric Power, is seeking public input on a transmission line rebuild project in Wayne County.
Robert Fields | WVOW News
CHARLESTON The company plans to rebuild approximately 18 miles of a 138-kilovolt transmission line as part of the Tri-State-East Lynn Transmission Project.
According to a press release from Appalachian Power, the project will replace aging wooden poles with steel structures and address reliability issues that have contributed to customer outages for years.
“Over the last decade, the existing transmission line has experienced periodic reliability challenges that have contributed to customer interruptions,” said George Porter, APCo spokesperson. “Rebuilding the line will address vegetation overgrowth and equipment failure, and it will increase reliability for customers in the area.”
A public open house is scheduled from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, June 25, at Wayne Elementary School. There is no formal presentation, so attendees may arrive at any time during the event.
According to the press release, landowners within the project area will receive a packet in the mail with additional project details and are encouraged to provide feedback by Friday, July 3. Right-of-way agents will contact affected landowners to discuss upcoming field activities and property easements.
“Modernizing our transmission system is critical to keeping the electric grid strong and reliable for customers,” Porter said. “We appreciate the opportunity to share information with the community and look forward to continuing to work with landowners and local residents as the project moves forward.”
The company plans to file the project with the West Virginia Public Service Commission this fall. If approved, construction would begin in spring 2028 and continue through late 2029.
PHOTO | Appalachian Power Company