MOUNT BLANCHARD, Ohio – AEP Ohio officials are planning to upgrade the electric transmission grid serving customers in Hardin, Hancock, Wyandot and Seneca counties.
The Dunkirk-Berwick Area Improvements Project involves:
- Upgrading about 25 miles of 34.5-kilovolt (kV) transmission line to 69-kV standards
- Building 10 miles of 69-kV power line
- Building substations in Dunkirk, Arlington and Carey
The project involves rebuilding the 25 miles of power line primarily in the company’s current right of way. Improvements to the nearly 100-year-old power line can help reduce the likelihood of larger, sustained community power outages.
The proposed 10-mile power line adds a second source of electricity in the area to ensure service reliability during equipment maintenance.
AEP representatives are evaluating route options for the new 10-mile power line and seek public input to help determine a final power line route. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the physical distancing recommendations made by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, landowners and community members are invited to a virtual open house to learn more about the project and provide feedback. Please visit AEPOhio.com/Dunkirk-Berwick to access project information, view an interactive map, enter the virtual open house and submit comments through a “Contact Us” link by April 5.
Company officials expect construction to begin in fall 2022 and conclude in fall 2025.