Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation is proposing to rebuild the WM line, an existing local electric transmission line that serves the towns of Montgomery, Hamptonburgh and New Windsor, as well as the villages of Walden, Montgomery and Maybrook. Two community open houses will be held so residents may learn more of this proposed project and offer their comments. The rebuilt line is planned to operate at the same voltage, and will likely be of similar appearance to the current line, with some possible modifications.

Information about the line and the project will be available, and representatives of Central Hudson will be on hand to answer questions. Registration is not required, and residents may arrive and leave at any time during the open houses:

“This important project will help improve the reliability of electric service, and allow this critical transmission line to meet the current and future energy needs of the towns and villages it serves,” said Carl E. Meyer, President and Chief Operating Officer of Central Hudson. “It is also important that the rebuilt line is compatible with the communities in which it is located, and feedback by residents is essential in planning for this project.”

Built in the 1930s, this 69,000-volt transmission line was located along formerly undeveloped areas, largely on single wood poles, and is in need of updating. Studies conducted by Central Hudson show that factors such as the line’s age, capacity limitations and increasing growth in local electric use require the line be rebuilt so that it may continue to provide reliable service.  In addition, certain sections of the line in areas where significant residential and commercial development has taken place should be relocated. Central Hudson is performing environmental reviews to identify any natural and historic features that should be preserved, and will conduct other analyses and obtain necessary permits prior to reconstructing the line.

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