SCH Number 2013102015

Project Info

Title

Contra Costa-Moraga 230 Kilovolt (kV) Reconducting Project (project)

Description

The Project includes installation of reconductoring equipment, modification of approximately 30 towers using helicopters and ground-based equipment; use of crossing structures to protect roads, utility lines, and other crossings; and establishment of pull sites, helicopter landing zones, and work areas to help facilitate project activities. Project activities are anticipated to take approximately 18 months to complete. Total project impacts include grading; excavating and the placement to fill material; installation of a temporary bridge; heavy equipment use within pull sites, landing zones, and work areas; digging holes for the placement of temporary crossing structures; temporary overland access routes, vehicle operation, and other activities. Six temporary overland access routes will be required to access two crossing structures and three work areas. Work areas will be established at nine of the towers to be modified, and at four additional areas. Site preparation activities at these locations may include vegetation clearing, grading, and placing geotechnical fabric and gravel. Six helicopter landing zones will be established to allow for the staging and refueling of helicopters used during project construction. Site preparation activities at these locations may include vegetation clearing, grading, and placing geotechnical fabric and gravel. Pull sites will include the equipment and materials necessary to replace the conductor. The Project will result in temporary impacts to 10.86 acres of California tiger salamander (Ambystoma californiense) and Alameda whipsnake (Masticophis lateralis euryxanthus) habitat. The project is expected to result in incidental take of California tiger salamander and Alameda whipsnake, which are designated as a threatened species under the CESA. The ITP referenced above as issued by CDFW authorizes incidental take of species listed under CESA that may occur as a result of Project implementation.

4 documents in project