Utilities reconsider power line through wildlife refuge

Utilities hoping to build three power lines through Minnesota are proposing a different route for the one that would run between the Twin Cities area and La Crosse, Wis.

The CapX2020 project utilities had said one of the high-voltage lines might go through a wildlife refuge on the Mississippi River.

The utilities have backed off that proposal in favor of one that would route the line across the river at Alma, Wis. The line would go east to Blair then south to La Crosse, adding at least 15 miles to the route.

CapX2020 spokesman Tim Carlsgaard says the new route was a response to "a lot of concern" from citizens and regulatory agencies.

Several environmental groups still oppose the line, saying it would cause visual and environmental harm.

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Information from: Winona Daily News, http://www.winonadailynews.com

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