South Jordan Neighborhood Voices Concerns on New Transmission Line

SOUTH JORDAN, Utah – Residents in one South Jordan neighborhood got the chance Monday to voice their concerns and ask for answers regarding a new transmission line being installed by Rocky Mountain Power.

The power company held a community open house and invited anyone with questions to attend.

The upgraded transmission line will run from South Jordan to Draper and be an increase from 46,000 kilovolts to almost three times that amount. It’s enough to have people worried.

“I would say the mood is cautiously pessimistic,” said South Jordan resident, Cameron Steadman.

In 2010, Rocky Mountain Power along with the city made the plan for the transmission line upgrade.

Now, the time to begin the work is rapidly approaching. One of the biggest concerns for those who live nearby is health and safety risks.

“The increased exposure to electric and magnetic fields really worries me with the kids,” Kristina Tingey said.

The new lines will run near an elementary school.

“We live in these communities, too, so it’s important that our system is safe and we protect the communities we serve,” Spencer Hall, a spokesperson with Rocky Mountain Power said.

Hall says the power company abides by the strict regulations and safety standards.

“I feel like there are other options (Rocky Mountain Power) haven’t let us know about,” Steadman said.

Residents at the meeting wanted to know the possibility of underground lines, or rerouting the path of the transmission line.

“There is a lot of misinformation out there,” Hall said. “We want people to know we are here to help Utah.”

On Monday night, many questions were answered, but doubt still remains.

“They said this is happening,” Steadman said. “We can talk about it, but it is happening.”