TVA gathers public opinion for proposed power line

By Nellann Mettee · Unknown

In this mention

TVA is holding a public meeting in Franklin, Tennessee to gather comments on a proposed 161,000-volt power line connecting Aspen Grove to a Bingham substation. Stephen Smith, executive director of the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy, expressed concerns that TVA is not seriously considering alternative routes, while TVA officials maintain the proposed route is necessary to meet growing electricity demands.

We firmly believe that there are other options. We think they're not being serious to try to work with us.
Stephen A. Smith

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TVA gathers public opinion for proposed power line

By NELLANN METTEE
Staff Writer

FRANKLIN — The Tennessee Valley Authority says a would-be power line is the best way to meet growing electricity needs.

Not sure you agree?

TVA will have a meeting tonight from 7-9 at Franklin High School to gather written public comments on the draft environmental assessment, which includes everything from the need for the line to information about affected areas.

The agency will accept public comments through March 14. Folks can find the assessment, and an address to send in comments, on TVA's Web site.

The proposed 161,000-volt line will connect Aspen Grove to a proposed Bingham community, substation and will string across west Franklin residential areas, including the new Westhaven development.

Environmentalists, developers and historic preservationists alike have raised concerns about the route. But TVA officials have said the route is the only option that can meet the date that power will be needed in that area.

"You have a clear case for a need," said TVA spokesman Gil Francis. "If the community were not growing ... you would not need a line."

Earlier this week, a unique group that includes both developers and environmentalists shared its concerns with city leaders who also opposed the proposed route.

"We firmly believe that there are other options," said Stephen Smith, executive director for the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy. "We think they're not being serious to try to work with us."