Only 2 NYRI routes would be acceptable (and not one of ours)

[mary]

Only 2 NYRI routes would be acceptable
AT ISSUE: Both would require power line be constructed underground
Observer-Dispatch
Posted Dec 16, 2008 @ 10:11 PM

If the Public Service Commission decides it’s necessary to run a 190-
mile, 1,200-megawatt line from the Mohawk Valley to downstate, there
are only two acceptable options.

* Follow the existing Marcy South route and bury the line underground.

* Build an underground route that follows the New York State Thruway.
Hi,

I missed the new developments from the Public Service Commission. It
is looking more favorable for Chenango, Broome and Delaware Counties
-- we may not be getting the new transmission line.

It is not such a good thing for March South or the NY Thruway.... or
even NYRI, as the cost of doing business is going up very quickly.

Mary

from the Utica Paper -- Dec 16
While both of these routes will likely still generate public
controversy, either is better than New York Regional Interconnect’s
preferred route, which would cut through local communities including
South Utica, Sauquoit, Clayville, Cassville and Waterville on its way
to Orange County.

That proposal disrupts the very heart of the Mohawk Valley and would
cause unnecessary disruptions when there are other feasible options.

Department of Public Service staff recently recommended that if the
line were built, the preferred route would be Marcy South, which goes
through the Herkimer County towns of Schuyler, Frankfort, German
Flatts, Litchfield and Columbia.

The Public Service staff is right to question NYRI’s proposal and
force the company to consider all of its options. NYRI must realize
that it can’t disrupt the quality-of-life we have here or cause our
energy rates to increase.

While the NYRI plan is flawed on many levels, it’s unlikely that power-
rich Upstate New York isn’t going to be tapped for energy in the
future, especially as wind power grows as a source in our region.

That’s why selecting routes that minimize the impact on our region,
its communities and its rural landscape must be the paramount
objective for all.
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