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H&SB Transmission Project

Central Hudson is rebuilding this electric transmission line to help meet the energy needs of local communities, address aging infrastructure and to enhance electric service reliability. The transmission line was originally constructed in 1928, and is nearing the end of its useful life. Rebuilding the line is an important investment in the electric infrastructure serving the region. Reconstruction of the line is expected to take place without any electric service interruption to customers.

hsb_existinglocation.jpgThe transmission lines, named "H" and "SB", are located in a 23.6-mile corridor between Kingston in Ulster County to North Catskill in Greene County. The corridor passes through open space, wooded parcels and residential/commercial areas. The line is being reconstructed within the existing right-of-way in nearly all areas, with the exception of a proposed new route for a small portion of the line within a quarry in order to avoid a large wetland. Both the lattice towers and wires are being replaced along the entire route, and some poles may be relocated within the easement, for example to span environmentally sensitive areas. The existing lattice towers are being replaced with a streamlined and slightly taller single pole design made of Corten steel, which features a characteristic brown, wood-like patina to help blend with the landscape. The rebuild design will increase the line's capability from 69,000 volts (69 kV) to 115,000 volts (115 kV), however the line will continue to operate at 69 kV until the increase in voltage is needed.

The Certificate of Environmental Compatibility and Public Need for this project was granted by the NY Public Service Commission (PSC) through the Order Adopting Joint Proposal effective Aug. 14, 2020. In addition, on Aug. 11, 2022 the PSC issued the Order Approving Environmental Management and Construction Plan Subject to Condition.

Central Hudson’s Application to the PSC, inclusive of project maps and numerous exhibits and environmental studies, is available on the PSC website.  For information regarding the Article VII permitting process, refer to the PSC publication “The Certification Review Process For Major Electric and Fuel Gas Transmission Facilities” here.

 

Recent Happenings

  • The first phase of this project was completed in March 2023. This phase included the rebuild of the first 3/4 mile of the "SB" line starting at the southernmost end of the project in Kingston.
  • The second phase of this project was completed in August 2024. This phase included rebuilding the remaining 10.5 miles of the "SB" line (Kingston to Saugerties). 
  • The third phase of this project commenced in September 2024.  This phase includes rebuilding the 12.2 mile “H” line (Saugerties to North Catskill) and is expected to be complete by the end of 2025.


Project Schedule Milestones

  • Central Hudson's application submission to the Public Service Commission:  Dec. 29, 2017
  • Public Service Commission Issuance of Certificate of Need:  Aug. 14, 2020              
  • Public Service Commission approved Environmental Management and Construction Plan:  Aug. 11, 2022
  • First phase construction commencement (beginning at south end in Kingston):  Oct. 17, 2022
  • Completion of first phase: March 9, 2023
  • Second phase construction commencement (Kingston to Saugerties): June 19, 2023
  • Completion of second phase: August 8, 2024
  • Third phase construction commencement (Saugerties to North Catskill): September 9, 2024


Special Notice to Landowners/Residents Along the Line

In accordance with Certificate Condition #37, Central Hudson will continue to attempt to notify landowners and residents along the Line of planned construction commencement specifically in their area at least seven (7) days, but no more than forty five (45) days, prior to the commencement of construction.  This notice only applies to persons who own or reside on properties that are crossed by or abut the Project right-of-way.


Contact Us

For inquires or complaints specifically regarding this project, you may contact us at: Project Hotline (toll-free) 844-428-7319 (Please note this should not be used for outages or emergencies) or email:  H-SB-Rebuild@cenhud.com

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