I&M proposes routes for new and rebuilt power lines in Indiana
Following discussions with local landowners and community members, Indiana Michigan Power (I&M) has proposed power line routes for a $45 million infrastructure investment in Indiana’s Jay County.
The Jay County Area Improvements Project will consist of a mix of new and rebuilt lines running through east-central Indiana, running north toward Pennville and east toward Portland. Plans have been underway since the project was first announced in July. They will include the rebuilding of around eight miles of 138-kilovolt line between Pennville and Dunkirk, and another two miles of 69-kV line heading north from Portland. Another nine miles of 69-kV line will be built to connect northern Portland and Pennville. Two substations in the region will be upgraded to supplement the improvements.
Company representatives state that the project should lead to increased reliability of the local system, lessen power outages, and speed recovery. The lines will be supported with steel monopole structures averaging between 90-120 ft. They will also be placed within a 100-foot right-of-way, of which Contract Land Staff will serve as a representative. It will be Contract Land Staff that discusses the matter with any landowners affected by the construction, operation, and maintenance efforts.
Construction is expected to begin in summer 2021 and finish by spring 2022.
