Update: New Buffalo-Bridgman Transmission Line Rebuild Project
Posted on February 2, 2024
The Protect Our Townships Alliance (POTA) recently sent out an update on the status of the New Buffalo - Bridgman Transmission Line Rebuild Project. Indiana Michigan Power (I&M) has committed to making the following project accommodations to modify the original project proposal:
• Commitment to working with Harbor Country Rotary Club representatives and discussing opportunities to contribute to the community's regeneration program.
• Reimbursing impacted landowners for removal of vegetation on private property within the easement area. I&M representatives plan to work with property owners to discuss the necessary vegetation removals and reimbursement based on the species and size.
• Relocating about a mile of transmission line along Hickory Street, Butternut Street, and Cherry Street to the agricultural fields east of the Village of Three Oaks. The existing distribution poles along the roadway would remain, as they directly serve homes.
• Utilizing wooden poles in the Village of Three Oaks, along Three Oaks Road and East Road, and from Lakeside Substation north along Red Arrow Highway to include Warren Dunes State Park. (There may be specific areas where they will need to use steel, such as for interstate crossings or where the strength and height requirements exceed what is available in wood.)
An alternative plan for rerouting the transmission lines along East Road was deemed impractical for a number of reasons outlined in this letter by I&M, which will be sent to residents along the transmission route this week.
I&M and Chikaming Township will be meeting on Thursday, February 8 to discuss how I&M came to their final conclusions.
POTA will continue advocating for the community and informing them as the project progresses.To sign up for POTA emails, visit their website.
