Squamish residents in Brackendale are expressing worry over the proposed construction of a new transmission line that would pass through their properties to provide power for the Woodfibre LNG facility. Karin Burns, a resident of the area, described her shock and dismay upon learning about the plans. Despite objections from the community, B.C. Hydro and Woodfibre LNG are moving forward with preliminary fieldwork and anticipate commencing construction as early as autumn.
The project involves the installation of an overhead transmission line along an existing right-of-way between the Cheekye Substation and the Woodfibre LNG site. This decision deviates from the original plan to utilize an existing transmission line on the opposite side of the Squamish River. Residents, including Burns, are concerned about the potential destruction of trees and structures in their backyards to accommodate the new infrastructure.
Woodfibre LNG aims to utilize electricity for liquefying natural gas for export purposes. The affected right-of-way traverses properties owned by Burns and her neighbors, raising issues of neighborhood disruption and uncertainty regarding the health effects of living near transmission lines. B.C. Hydro asserts that there are no established health risks associated with the electric and magnetic fields generated by such lines.
The decision to proceed with the Brackendale route was influenced by cost considerations, as confirmed in a letter sent to residents. The estimated expenses and time delays associated with alternative options led to the selection of the current course of action. While acknowledging the stress caused by the situation, officials maintain that the chosen route is the most economically feasible.
The Squamish Nation is currently evaluating the proposal for the new power line, focusing on safeguarding cultural, archaeological, and environmental interests. Jeremy Valeriote, a B.C. Green Party candidate, remains hopeful that a more expensive but less disruptive route may still be reconsidered. A scheduled meeting between B.C. Hydro, community members, and stakeholders has been postponed until after the upcoming provincial election.