CABELL/PUTNAM COUNTIES (LOOTPRESS) – Appalachian Power has unveiled revised route options for its Bancroft-Milton Transmission Line Rebuild Project, eliminating all routes that would have crossed the Meeks Mountain Trails. The changes come after the utility received over 680 public comments following initial open houses held in late 2024.
“We listened to the community’s feedback, removed the route options crossing Meeks Mountain Trails, and rerouted several other options,” said Aaron Walker, Appalachian Power president and COO. “We value the community’s knowledge of the area and hope to gather more feedback at this round of open houses.”
The project aims to rebuild approximately 20 miles of transmission line and upgrade several substations in Putnam and Cabell counties. Appalachian Power will host two new open houses to share updated plans and gather further input from residents:
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Where: Valley Park Conference Center, 1 Valley Park Drive, Hurricane, WV
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When: Tuesday, June 24 and Wednesday, June 25, from 4:30–8:00 p.m.
There will be no formal presentations; attendees are encouraged to drop in at any time during the events. Identical information will be provided at both sessions.
Landowners in the project area will also receive mailed packets with additional details. Those unable to attend can visit AppalachianPower.com/Bancroft-Milton for a virtual open house and more information.
The company plans to submit an application to the Public Service Commission of West Virginia in early 2026. If approved, construction would begin in summer 2028 and conclude by spring 2031.
