Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) has evaluated 10 alternative routes for the new transmission line to power Middle Tennessee EMC’s new Owl Hollow Substation. The same considerations — environmental, land-use, engineering, and cultural — were used to assess each alternative. The reviews were based on available data, aerial photography, onsite reviews, public review and comment, and property owners’ input.

Based on these evaluations, TVA has identified a preferred route. The preferred route will begin at TVA’s future Maury-Rutherford 500-kV/161-kV line and head northwest then north to the proposed substation. About 2.55 mi of the 3.5-mi route will parallel the I-65 corridor. The route is expected to have the least overall impact because it will parallel existing corridors and avoid planned development. The project is scheduled to be completed in June 2010.

Middle Tennessee EMC is building a new substation in the growing southern Williamson County area. The new line and substation will provide a reliable source of power to the growing area. The transmission line will consist of single steel pole structures on a 100-foot right-of-way. The project is scheduled to be completed by summer 2010.

TVA’s process for siting new transmission projects is designed to allow public input at all stages. TVA is committed to working with area stakeholders to address concerns during the course of the project. Comments received during the comment period will be used in reaching a decision on the proposed action.

TVA held an open house on March 20, 2008 to discuss the proposed transmission line project. Comments were accepted through April 21, 2008.

The remaining steps in the project are:

• Begin contacting property owners for permission to survey: Summer 2008
• Begin field surveys and environmental reviews: summer 2008
• Begin construction: Spring 2010
• Line in service: June 2010.