U.S. Forest Service Affirms Sunrise Powerlink Record of Decision

The U.S. Forest Service announced on October 15 that the agency has resolved administrative appeals and affirmed the agency’s Record of Decision (ROD) granting SDG&E permission to construct a segment of the Sunrise Powerlink through the Cleveland National Forest. This affirmation is a “green light” for the imminent start of construction on the transmission line later this year.

The U.S. Forest Service issued their original positive Record of Decision on July 13, 2010. This was followed by a 45-day public appeal process and 45-day resolution of appeals required under the Appeal Reform Act. In total, 12 administrative appeals were filed by various members of the public and were evaluated by the Regional Forester to ensure an independent review.

Now that the appeals have been resolved, there is a 15-business-day period before the decision becomes effective. On Nov. 4, the Record of Decision will be considered final, and the project can move forward on Forest Service land as soon as a Special Use Permit and appropriate Notice(s) to Proceed are issued.

• USFS Record of Decision (pdf)
  
  
• Final ARO Letter - Sunrise Powerlink Appeals (pdf)
  
  
• USFS News Release (pdf)
  
  
• Forest Service denies Sunrise Powerlink appeals (news story)