Tennessee Valley Authority
Spring Hill, Tennessee
Power Supply Upgrade
Update: June 2008
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 alternative route segments 2, 8, 9, 12, and 14 as the preferred route (see map). 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 miles of the 3.5-mile 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.
Background
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.
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 on March 20, 2008 to discuss the proposed transmission line project. Comments were accepted through April 21, 2008.
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. Map of alternatives (PDF, 285 kb)
Map of preferred route (PDF, 342 kb)
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: March 20, 2008
Comments accepted: through April 21, 2008
Determine preferred route for field surveys: June 2008
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
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)
Environmental Protection and Best Management Practices (PDF, 7 mb)