Tennessee Valley Authority
Monroe, Tennessee
Power Supply Upgrade
Update: May 2008
TVA has evaluated four alternative routes for the new transmission line to power Upper Cumberland EMC’s new Monroe 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 alternative route segments 3, 4, 6 and 7 as the preferred route (see map). The preferred route begins at TVA’s existing Livingston-Huntsville 161-kV line and heads east, north east to the proposed substation. About two miles of the route will parallel the existing Livingston-Byrdstown 69-kV line. This route has been reduced in length by two miles (route segments 8 and 10) from the one presented at the open house and is expected to have the fewest overall impacts.
The project is scheduled to be completed winter 2009-2010.
Background: March 2008
A new transmission line is needed to maintain reliable electric service and meet growing demand in the Livingston and Dale Hollow Lake areas.
TVA’s Livingston, Tennessee Substation is projected to be overloaded by the summer of 2009. Upper Cumberland EMC (UCEMC) uses this substation to serve Livingston and the south side of Dale Hollow Lake. Power facilities around the lake are already experiencing low voltage problems, and new electrical load is anticipated from new development in the area.
TVA plans a new transmission line to supply power for a new UCEMC substation that is needed to maintain reliable electric service and meet growing demand in the Livingston and Dale Hollow Lake areas. The line would extend from TVA’s existing Livingston Substation, located southwest of Dillon Pond Park near Hwy. 111, to UCEMC’s new Monroe Substation, located south of Hwy. 111 in Monroe. See map.
By continuing to provide affordable, reliable power, TVA and distributors of TVA power will help ensure continued economic health and growth in the area.
Public involvement
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 to discuss the proposed transmission line project on February 28, 2008 in Livingston, Tennessee. TVA representatives were available to provide information and answer questions.
Map
The map is a PDF file requiring Adobe Acrobat Reader. Use the zoom tool to view details of the map and allow time for it to reload. If you have questions or need help understanding the map, please contact TVA.
The map shows the network of alternative routes TVA is considering for the proposed transmission line.
The map shows the preferred route TVA is considering for the proposed transmission line.
Environmental reviews
The appropriate National Environmental Policy Act reviews will be conducted to ensure that the environmental impacts are minimized. TVA attempts to minimize any land requirements, private property impacts, and environmental impacts associated with this project.
Project schedule
Open house: February 28, 2008
Comments accepted: through March 28, 2008
Determine preferred route for field surveys: spring 2008
Begin contacting property owners for permission to survey: summer 2008
Begin field surveys and environmental reviews: summer 2008
Begin right-of-way acquisitions: spring 2009
Begin construction: summer 2009
Completion: winter 2009-2010
Related information
Electric and magnetic fields and their effects
Benefits of planting native shrubs and grasses in utility rights-of-way.
Landscaping with native shrubs (PDF file, 879 kb)
Landscaping with native grasses (PDF file, 644 kb)