Appalachian Power representatives are upgrading the transmission system in Washington and Smyth counties as part of the Saltville-Wolf Hills Transmission Line Rebuild Project. The project team plans to host two open houses in February for landowners and residents to learn more and provide input.
The project involves rebuilding about 27 miles of 138-kilovolt electric transmission line and upgrading several area substations. The upgrades begin at an existing transmission tower near Wallace Pike Road and the Wolf Hills Substation in Bristol. The rebuild continues northeast for 27 miles, traveling north of the town of Abingdon and concluding at the Saltville Substation off East Main Street in Saltville.
“The existing transmission line dates back to the 1920s,” said George Porter, Appalachian Power spokesperson. “It’s important to upgrade this equipment to address corrosion and wear, meet current electric safety standards and maintain reliable electric service in the area.”
The project team is seeking community input on route options at select areas along the power line route to rebuild the line.
Two open houses are planned from 5 – 7 p.m. in the project area. There is no formal presentation, so attendees may come and go at any time during the two-hour events to learn more and provide input.
Open house details:
– Tuesday, Feb. 7, at Abingdon Elementary School cafeteria located at 19431 Woodland Hills Rd. in Abingdon.
– Wednesday, Feb. 8, at Saltville Elementary School cafeteria located at 1013 E. Main St. in Saltville.
For the health and safety of the community and the project team, those who are feeling unwell are asked to please consider visiting the project website and virtual open house at AppalachianPower.com/Saltville-WolfHills. In the case of inclement weather, the project team asks landowners to check the project website for cancellations or rescheduled open house dates.
Affected landowners can expect to receive a packet in the mail that includes additional project details and a comment card they can return with their feedback. The project team plans to use input from the community and additional field work to determine a power line route that minimizes impact on the community and environment.
The project requires approval by the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC). Company representatives plan to file an application with the SCC requesting approval this fall. If the project receives approval, the company expects construction to begin summer 2025 and conclude by the end of 2027.
