Prince William Residents Protest New Transmission Line Proposal
Residents of Prince William County are voicing their concerns over a proposed 6.5-mile Dominion Energy transmission line. This new line aims to connect the Nokesville substation to a future switching station in Bristow. Citizens fear the project is linked to increased electricity demand from local data centers.
Community Rally Against Transmission Line Proposal
A significant protest occurred on November 5 at George Mason University’s Beacon Hall in Manassas. The event attracted around 250-300 attendees, including members of the Coalition to Protect Prince William County and the Civic Association of Brentsville and Surrounding Areas. Local officials present included:
- Senator Danica Roem
- Deshundra Jefferson, Chair of the Prince William Board of County Supervisors
- George Stewart, Gainesville supervisor-elect
Jefferson expressed her dissatisfaction with power line placements, questioning the need for new lines. “Why is the power grid under such strain that we must consider placing transmission lines in residential areas?” she asked.
Impact on Local Communities
The proposed transmission line has sparked particular concern among residents of Braemar, a nearby community. Jefferson highlighted the adverse effects of data center growth on electricity needs, stating, “Some Braemar residents are fed up because it directly impacts them.”
Unique Characteristics of the Proposed Transmission Line
Vida Carroll, co-leader of the Civic Association, noted that this project is distinct from previous transmission line initiatives in the area. “This power line is unique because it does not expand an existing right of way. Instead, it’s a brand new line that traverses rural and residential spaces,” she explained.
Dominion Energy has identified three potential routes for the transmission line:
- A route through Nokesville along local railroad tracks to Bristow
- A second option that runs along Kettle Run and through Burnside Farms to Bristow
- A third route along a gas utility easement behind Patriot High School, through Braemar, and then along Broad Run to Bristow
Community Engagement and Future Steps
Dominion Energy has stated that all proposed routes are still in the conceptual phase. Aisha Khan, a spokesperson for the company, said they do not yet have a preferred route. The company aims to gather public input to refine the options before submitting a formal proposal to the State Corporation Commission.
Moreover, some residents advocate for underground lines to minimize impact, but this option has been deemed impractical due to space constraints in the Nokesville area. Khan emphasized the crucial role of community feedback, noting that it has been integral to shaping the project thus far.
Community members who missed the rally are encouraged to share their comments through the project website provided by Dominion Energy.
