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Appalachian Power presents underground routing option for rail-trail crossing; supervisors ask for more alternatives
Summary
Appalachian Power described a revised plan that reduces the right-of-way by routing part of the line underground along the rail trail; the utility explained splice-box size, conduit depth, and constraints tied to steep parcels, and the board requested additional options and public input.
An Appalachian Power representative described a revised design that moves the line underground where it follows the rail trail and tree line, reducing the right-of-way to about 20 feet in places compared with a prior 40-foot overhead corridor. The company said underground cable would be placed in conduit, typically at least 48 inches below grade, and that splice boxes where circuits join would be sizable surface structures.
Supervisors raised questions about why the line could not be routed on a large parcel south of the Mayo River, concerns about impacts to the rail trail and EDA-owned property, and long-term maintenance access on steep grades. AEP asked for further feedback and said it would bring suggestions back; one motion "to not approve" the presentation was raised and the board discussed the need for a better alternative rather than an outright block.
