Subramanyam Urges Consideration of New Golden to Mars Route Along Route 606

WASHINGTON, DC- U.S. Representative Suhas Subramanyam (VA-10) released the below statement in support of building the Golden to Mars power line predominantly along Route 606 instead of on school or residential property. Congressman Subramanyam had been informed that this route was not possible because of opposition from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). But after intervening by sending a letter to NOAA and meeting with NOAA Administrator Dr. Neil Jacobs, Rep. Subramanyam feels confident NOAA would work with the community to build Golden to Mars along its property.

Congressman Subramanyam issued the following statement:

"We've been faced with a false choice: build Golden to Mars power lines on residential property or build them on school property. Both options would be harmful to our community. When I asked whether there was an alternative option along Route 606, I was told that federal agencies like NOAA would oppose building them along their property.

So after sitting down with Administrator Jacobs to make our community's concerns known and asking for NOAA to explore working with the community, I am confident that the Administrator and his team will explore and even support allowing an alternative Golden to Mars route along their property.

Our community has made its opposition to the current proposals known. So, if we aren't going to underground these lines, I urge the utility company, local and state officials, and the State Corporation Commission to come back to the table and make Route 606 the choice for the Golden to Mars transmission project.

We must consider every option possible, particularly if it can help mitigate harm to our schools and residents. These Golden to Mars deliberations have caused too much pain and the proposed routes will create too much harm to generations of Loudoun residents. We must prioritize giving this option a look instead of endless litigation and fights."

Last week, Congressman Subramanyam asked NOAA for information about the potential new Golden to Mars route and whether it was ever asked for guidance on Route 606. The 606 route would bring the transmission lines down Old Ox Road and not through neighborhoods.