Oak Creek Powerline Project Takes a Major Step Forward

The Coconino National Forest has announced significant advancements in the APS McGuireville to Oak Creek 69kV transmission line project, aimed at enhancing power reliability for residents of the Red Rock Ranger District.

This ambitious project involves the construction of a new 13.7-mile transmission line linking the communities of McGuireville and Oak Creek, creating a looped power system. This upgrade is anticipated to improve both reliability and resiliency by enabling power to be redirected during outages, minimizing disruptions for local customers.

The Forest has released a final environmental assessment and initiated a public objection process, inviting feedback on the draft decision for the project. Supervisor Aaron Mayville highlighted the initiative’s importance, stating, “This decision will strengthen the electric grid throughout the Verde Valley and provide improved power reliability for the communities.” He also emphasized the cooperation achieved during the planning stages, which balances infrastructure needs with environmental preservation.

In detail, the draft decision specifies that parts of the transmission line will be installed overhead, including sections that replace existing power lines near the Village of Oak Creek and new lines along Cornville Road. Other segments will be buried underground, particularly where the line intersects State Route 179 and Beaverhead Flat Road, to mitigate environmental impact.

District Ranger Alex Schlueter acknowledged public concerns regarding visible power lines but affirmed the necessity of this infrastructure. He stated, “Strengthening the power grid and protecting Verde Valley’s households and businesses depending on reliable power is a necessity given risks from weather events and other unanticipated incidents.”

The Coconino National Forest is providing a 45-day objection period for individuals or organizations that previously commented on the project. Essential documents, including objection filing instructions, can be accessed at gov/project/coconino/?project63848.

For further inquiries about the project or the planning process, interested parties may reach out to Coconino National Forest NEPA Coordinator Mike Dechter at michael.dechter@usda.gov.