Army Corps to Host Public Meetings for $1.5B Columbia River Power Line Project
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will hold two online public meetings to gather feedback on the $1.5 billion Cascade Renewable Transmission project, which proposes a 100-mile high-voltage power line under the Columbia River.
This project aims to connect power generation east of the Cascade Mountains to consumers along the Interstate 5 corridor. The Corps will conduct a comprehensive environmental assessment, examining potential impacts on the environment, ecology, and local communities.
The project has faced opposition from shipping groups, environmental advocates, and Native nations, concerned about its effects on endangered species and treaty rights. Developer PowerBridge is navigating the permitting process, requiring approvals from both Washington and Oregon, with expectations that the Corps' permitting process could take about two years. The Corps anticipates completing its review by next winter.
