Blue Earth County approves Great River Energy 69 kV transmission reroute across McPherson and Decoria townships

Planning staff described PC 23-25 as a request from Great River Energy to reroute a 69-kilovolt transmission line in three segments across McPherson and Decoria townships. The reroute includes approximately 0.5 miles connecting County Road 174 and Township Road 600 and a roughly 2.5-mile segment in the County Road 177 right-of-way in Decoria Township; staff said a third 0.25-mile segment is proposed in County Road 174 right-of-way.

Dale Elke, senior field representative for Great River Energy, told the board the project continues a previous reroute and is intended to reduce line length and improve reliability by reducing exposure and difficult river crossings. He said alignment flexibility is available if future realignment is needed.

The planning commission reviewed the application, had no concerns and unanimously recommended approval based on staff findings and conditions. The county board opened a public hearing; no public comments were offered in opposition. A commissioner moved to approve PC 23-25 and a second was recorded; the board voted by voice and the chair announced the motion carries.

Context: Staff emphasized the projectis a reliability-driven continuation of previous transmission line realignment work; county planning staff and the planning commission recommended approval, and Great River Energy committed to coordination with county highway staff during construction to minimize future conflicts.