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Ingham County opposes proposed ITC transmission route through Burchfield Park and Riverbend Natural Area
Summary
The Board unanimously adopted a resolution opposing any International Transmission Company route that would pass through Burchfield County Park and Riverbend Natural Area, citing potential damage to wetlands, wildlife habitat and jeopardy to future Department of Natural Resources grants.
The Ingham County Board of Commissioners on June 23 adopted Resolution #26-324 formally opposing any proposed route for International Transmission Company’s Oneida-to-Sabine Lake transmission project that would pass through Burchfield County Park and Riverbend Natural Area.
Supporters of the resolution — including local residents and county parks staff — argued the crossing would permanently alter wetlands, fragment habitat and undercut the park’s value for recreation and education. “All told, Burchfield Park had nearly 500,000 visitors last year — a remarkable number,” said Anne Grovert, a long-time volunteer who addressed the Board during public comment. Commissioners emphasized grant and conservation consequences: the resolution and supplemental testimony referenced Department of Natural Resources grant restrictions, and Parks Director Tim Morgan warned the proposed route would reduce competitiveness for future DNR grants. “The current proposed route would also intersect with several Farmland Preservation properties as they exist now,” Morgan said, noting potential conflicts with existing conservation designations.
The resolution notes Ingham County has encumbered the park with DNR grants and would face ‘‘conversion’’ findings that could create negative points on future grant applications. The Board’s action asks ITC and review agencies, including the Michigan Public Service Commission, to remove the park and Riverbend Natural Area from consideration and prioritize alternative routes that avoid public parkland.
The motion to adopt the amended resolution passed unanimously. The resolution directs copies be sent to ITC Transmission, the Michigan Public Service Commission and relevant state and federal officials for consideration during project review.
