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Transmission-line upgrade filing continued while DEP and wetland details are finalized
Summary
DSC Group representing New England Power updated the commission on a large-scale transmission refurbishment filing and DEP review; commissioners asked for additional wetland delineation information and agreed to isolate site visits before continuing the matter to April 28.
Representatives for New England Power (file DEP1600677) presented an update on a large-scale refurbishment of the A1 B2 transmission line that affects several areas of wetland jurisdiction inside and outside Gardner City limits. The applicant (DSC Group) told the commission it had received initial DEP comments and that DEP was reviewing a Clean Water Act (401) filing; technical comments were still pending.
Why it matters: The project would require work within utility right-of-way and in areas adjacent to mapped wetlands across multiple parcels. DEP’s technical review and any required wetland replication or mitigation plans will affect project design and timing.
The DSC Group representative said DEP had questioned signatures where off-right-of-way easements were not yet in hand; the project team confirmed those easements are in place so signatures are not required for the filing. DEP also asked the applicant to clarify why a buffer zone appeared on Green Street in the DEP mapping; the team said it will follow up with DEP to reconcile mapping differences. DSC Group said it will collect additional data and update the wetland replication plan as requested.
Commissioners asked for site visits to selected locations before the commission takes final action. The applicant agreed to provide a list of key locations. The commission continued the filing to April 28 to allow DEP technical comments and the updated wetland materials to be prepared.
