Tennessee Valley Authority
Hardeman County, Tennessee
New Transmission Line to Bolivar Substation
Update: November 2006
TVA has evaluated a network of 16 alternative route segments for the transmission line using the same environmental, land-use, engineering, and cost considerations for each alternative. The reviews were based on available data, aerial photography, limited onsite reviews, public review and comment, and property owners’ input.
Based on these evaluations, TVA has identified the eastern route as its preferred route for the transmission line, consisting of segments 5, 9 and 16 (see map). Although this is not the shortest feasible option studied, the route minimizes the overall impact to the community when compared with the other alternatives.
The preferred route begins at a point just east of where TVA’s existing Selmer-Hickory Valley 161-kilovolt transmission line crosses Sain Road and follows the east side of Sain Road for about 2.5 miles. It then turns northwest, crossing Sain Road and Highway 18. Upon reaching TVA’s existing transmission line into the Bolivar Substation, the new line will parallel the east side of the line to the substation, for a total route length of about five miles.
Generally, 100-foot right-of-way is required. However, the width of new right-of-way required will vary from 60-100 feet, due to the new line paralleling roads and existing lines.
Read the results of TVA’s environmental assessment of the project.
Background
TVA supplies the Bolivar Primary Substation, along with seven local distributor substations, via a 64-mile-long, 161-kilovolt transmission line. In order to maintain reliability in the area, TVA plans to build a second transmission line to the substation.
The new line into the substation would improve reliability by breaking the 64-mile line into two segments of approximately 45 and 15 miles. Either segment would be able to serve the load in the Bolivar area if the other segment is not in service.
The new line would be 4.5 - 6 miles long, depending on the preferred route (see map) It would be built using steel pole structures on a 100-foot right-of-way. The projected in-service date is December 2007.
By continuing to provide affordable, reliable power, TVA and distributors of TVA power will help ensure continued economic health and residential and commercial growth in the area.
Public involvement
TVA’s process for siting new transmission projects is designed to afford substantial public input at all stages. TVA is committed to working with area stakeholders to address concerns during the course of the project. Comments received during the 30-day comment period will be used in reaching a decision on the proposed action
Handout from Open House (PDF, 221 kb)
Map
The map is a PDF file requiring Adobe Acrobat Reader. Use the zoom tool to view details of the map and allow time for it to reload. If you have questions or need help understanding the map, please contact TVA.
Bolivar alternative routes map (PDF, 304 kb)
Area under consideration and the network of alternative routes TVA evaluated for the proposed transmission lineBolivar preferred route map (PDF, 209 kb)
TVA’s decision on a route for the line
Environmental reviews
The appropriate National Environmental Policy Act reviews will be conducted to ensure that the environmental impacts are minimized. TVA attempts to minimize any land requirements, private property impacts, and environmental impacts associated with this project.
Project schedule
Open house: September 29, 2005
Comments accepted: through October 31, 2005
Determine preferred route for field surveys: January 2006
Begin contacting property owners for permission to survey: winter 2006
Begin field surveys and environmental reviews: winter 2005-06
Begin right-of-way acquisitions: winter 2006-07
Begin construction: summer 2007
Line in service: December 2007
Related information
Frequently asked questions about TVA right-of-way.
Electric and magnetic fields and their effects
Benefits of planting native shrubs and grasses in utility rights-of-way.
- Landscaping with native shrubs (PDF file, 879 kb)
- Landscaping with native grasses (PDF file, 644 kb)