COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa. (WOWT) – MidAmerican Energy is proposing to upgrade power lines that run between two of its substations to meet growing energy demand, but residents in the Briarwood neighborhood are opposing the plan.
The proposed project would span 6.5 miles and replace existing lines that run near the Briarwood neighborhood with new, more powerful ones.
Proposed transmission line sparks outrage(WOWT)
Officials with MidAmerican Energy say a new data center in the works in Council Bluffs will require the upgraded power lines to support higher energy demand.
“From our studies, what we’re seeing is in order to support that growth and provide reliable power, that this line is needed,” said Josh Birmingham, an engineer with MidAmerican Energy.
Residents question routing near homes
Residents question why the new lines will run near their homes instead of along Interstate 80. They worry the project will hurt property values, create noise and pose potential health risks.
Proposed transmission line sparks outrage(WOWT)
Terry Oswald, whose home is near where the new powerlines would be placed, raised questions about the company’s approach at a public meeting Thursday.
“Whether we’re seeing forceful tactics used to force these lines in place, but also why are we building out such powerful electric lines on the east side of Council Bluffs in an area that’s zoned agricultural,” Oswald said.
Proposed transmission line sparks outrage(WOWT)
The mayor of Council Bluffs also voiced opposition to the proposed plan at the Thursday meeting.
Company willing to reconsider
MidAmerican Energy officials said they are listening to concerns and willing to consider different options before a final plan is set.
“I think we’re going to go back to the drawing board and look at this interstate route a little bit more in detail. I’m not saying that that’s going to be our final decision, but we are going to go back and determine is this something that we need to take a second look at,” Birmingham said.
Many upset homeowners pointed to a state law signed by the governor in April that allows transmission lines to be installed along interstates.
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