James City County citizens are encouraged to get involved by voicing their opinions on Dominion Virginia Power’s proposal to install transmission towers and power lines across the James River.
The citizen comment period ends September 27, 2013.
James City County and other parties have opposed Dominion’s proposal based on its potential impacts on the environment, historic sites, tourism, and the economy of the Historic Triangle, officials say.
Since the proposal calls for towers nearly 300 feet tall, the towers will be fitted with flashing lights; the lines will have brightly-colored balls to increase their visibility per FAA regulations. The towers will be visible from historic sites such as Historic Jamestowne, the Colonial Parkway, and Carter’s Grove.
The towers may also have significant environmental impacts, including effects on the sturgeon fish population and unsettling pollutants in the James River. The National Trust for Historic Preservation has named the James River near Jamestown as one of America’s most endangered historic sites as a result of this proposal.
The State Corporation Commission has not reached a decision on Dominion’s proposal at this time; however, Dominion is seeking advanced approval from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for a permit to construct the towers.
Citizens are encouraged to sign an online petition and contact the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at randy.l.steffey@usace.army.mil to request that they hold a public hearing on Dominion’s proposal.
It is important that the Army Corps hear from concerned citizens about the negative impacts of Dominion’s proposal, officials say. James City County asks that everyone share the importance of this issue and encourage others to get involved.
