Stop Xcel Energy New Transmission Power Line on Route 285 & Through Conejos County Private Farms |
As shown in the map above, a new electric transmission line with 70-120 foot tall poles that are 1.5-4 feet in diameter has been proposed to run along Highway 285 from Antonito north for 32 miles to Alamosa and go through precious private farmland which the company plans to take control over by eminent domain. While electric reliability is important, the line AS PROPOSED would result in a number of needless negative impacts to Conejos County residents and our environment. It appears that the sole impetus for not using its existing right of way is that the new path along 285 and through farms is shorter and therefore cheaper to build. Since Xcel already has a public right of way on the path of the existing transmission line, which by the company’s own record could be used for the upgrade, we believe there is no justification to take away farmer’s private property rights and lower property values so they can maximize their profits. Homes and businesses within a thousand feet could lose between 18% to 45% of their value.
We contend the industrialization of the 285 corridor between Antonito and Alamosa will have long lasting negative impact on the tourism industry here in the Valley. As part of the Sangre de Cristo National Heritage area, Los Caminos Antiguos Scenic Byway is the result of a multi-year public/private partnership involving multiple businesses and organizations to promote and preserve the rich cultural heritage of our valley. Preserving view sheds along the Scenic Byway which runs along 285 is a stated goal. Putting a major transmission line along this route is incompatible with these goals.
Please add your name below and urge the Conejos County Planning Commission and County Commissioners to deny Xcel Energy’s proposal for a new transmission line route and tell the company to use its existing right of way.
For further detail on gaining the benefits of transmission lines without sacrificing quality of life, visit: https://ceds.org/tl/
We contend the industrialization of the 285 corridor between Antonito and Alamosa will have long lasting negative impact on the tourism industry here in the Valley. As part of the Sangre de Cristo National Heritage area, Los Caminos Antiguos Scenic Byway is the result of a multi-year public/private partnership involving multiple businesses and organizations to promote and preserve the rich cultural heritage of our valley. Preserving view sheds along the Scenic Byway which runs along 285 is a stated goal. Putting a major transmission line along this route is incompatible with these goals.
Please add your name below and urge the Conejos County Planning Commission and County Commissioners to deny Xcel Energy’s proposal for a new transmission line route and tell the company to use its existing right of way.
For further detail on gaining the benefits of transmission lines without sacrificing quality of life, visit: https://ceds.org/tl/