Oncor Receives Approval to Expand Substation in Echo Heights Despite Community Concerns
Fort Worth City Council approved a zoning change for Oncor to expand a substation in Echo Heights, allowing the addition of two transformers. The decision faced opposition from residents citing health and environmental concerns due to industrial growth in the area. Council member Jeanette Martinez supported the change under the condition of no further industrial use. Concerns were raised regarding chronic illnesses from pollution and a lack of regulatory oversight on industrial projects.

The Fort Worth City Council voted 7-3 to approve Oncor's expansion of a substation in Echo Heights, reclassifying 5 acres from residential to industrial. This project will add two transformers to the existing two at the site, responding to rising power demands.
Residents and environmental advocates expressed concerns over health issues linked to industrial pollution, noting over 100 parcels transitioned from residential to industrial zoning. Council member Jeanette Martinez approved the zoning change on the condition of no further industrial use.
Oncor stated that new transformers would be quieter and posed no environmental risks. Community members criticized the lack of regulatory oversight and the absence of a planned meeting with Oncor to discuss the expansion.




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