FAYETTE COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Appalachian Power plans to install lighted marker balls on transmission lines crossing the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve as part of an ongoing improvement project in Fayette County.
The work is part of the second phase of the Kincaid Area Transmission Line Project, which includes rebuilding approximately one mile of transmission line spanning the gorge.
According to Appalachian Power, the marker balls will measure approximately 36 inches in diameter and feature steady red lights to improve visibility for aircraft flying through the area. The improvements follow recommendations from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
The transmission line crossing was originally constructed in the 1970s. The upgrades are intended to improve aviation safety while strengthening the electrical system and reducing the likelihood of prolonged power outages.
“Safety and reliability are at the heart of this project,” said George Porter, Appalachian Power spokesperson.
“Adding FAA-recommended marker balls over the New River Gorge will improve visibility for pilots, while the associated upgrades allow us to rebuild aging infrastructure, strengthen the transmission system and reduce the likelihood of prolonged outages for customers.”
Tree clearing and access road construction are scheduled to begin in November 2026. Work on the transmission line crossing is expected to begin in early 2027 and be completed by spring 2027.
The first phase of the project, completed earlier this year, included constructing approximately 15 miles of transmission line, rebuilding another two miles, building two substations and upgrading several existing substations in Fayette County.
Additional information about the project is available at AppalachianPower.com/Kincaid.
