Local Residents Demand Halt on Power Line Projects Near Susquehanna Power Plant

During the Luzerne County Council meeting on June 24, 2025, a significant concern was raised regarding a proposed power line project by PPL Electric Utilities. Residents expressed strong opposition to the project, which they believe would drastically alter their community and environment.

A local resident, representing an alliance against the power line, described the project as a "really big problem," highlighting the visual and environmental impact it would have on the area. The proposed infrastructure includes towering poles, extensive cables, and a 200-foot wide gravel road, which residents fear would resemble an airport runway. This stark imagery resonated with council members and attendees, emphasizing the disruption to daily life and the potential dangers posed to families and children living nearby.

The resident reported that over 1,700 petitions have been signed in opposition to the project, indicating a growing community movement against the power line. The alliance has also garnered a following of approximately 2,300 on social media, showcasing the increasing public concern and mobilization around this issue.

In response to these concerns, the resident requested that the County Council take immediate action by suspending all permits for projects south of the Susquehanna Power Plant for the past two years. Additionally, they called for a freeze on new permits in the same area until PPL abandons the current route in favor of one of three proposed alternatives that would mitigate the impact on the community.

The meeting underscored the tension between utility infrastructure development and community preservation, as residents voiced their desire for a solution that balances energy needs with environmental and social considerations. The council's response to these requests will be closely watched by the community as they seek to protect their homes and quality of life.