The New York State Public Service Commission has scheduled two in-person public statement hearings and two virtual hearings to gather input on a proposed transmission line rebuild by Niagara Mohawk Power Corporation, operating as National Grid. The in-person hearings will take place on December 9, 2025, at the Carthage Recreation Building, while the virtual hearings are set for December 10, 2025.
National Grid filed an application on March 28, 2025, seeking approval under Article VII of the Public Service Law to rebuild approximately 27.44 miles of existing 115 kilovolt (kV) transmission lines. The project runs from the Black River Substation in LeRay, Jefferson County, to the new Beaver River Substation in Croghan, Lewis County. The route crosses several towns and villages in both counties.
The proposed rebuild includes replacing current wood and steel structures with new engineered steel monopoles. Most of the work would be within the existing right-of-way (ROW), but some segments will require new or expanded ROWs. National Grid may need to acquire additional easement rights through eminent domain if necessary. According to National Grid, “the project is necessary to ensure its continued provision of safe and reliable service and to achieve the objectives of the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act within the Watertown/Oswego/Porter Area of Concern.”
The Commission can approve or reject National Grid’s proposal fully or partially or modify it based on input from parties and public comments.
During each hearing session, National Grid will present an overview of the project before opening up for questions from attendees. Members of the public can make statements either orally at the hearing or submit them in writing. All sessions will be transcribed and included in the official record available on the Commission’s website.
For those wishing to attend virtually and provide a statement, advance registration is required by December 9, 2025. Registration details are available at https://dps.ny.gov/calendar.
People unable or unwilling to attend can submit comments online via www.dps.ny.gov by referencing “Case 25-T-0195,” by mail addressed to Hon. Michelle L. Phillips at Three Empire State Plaza in Albany, or by calling a toll-free opinion line at 1-800-335-2120. Comments must be received by January 30, 2026; late submissions may not be considered.
Accessibility accommodations are available for people with disabilities or those needing language assistance services by contacting appropriate numbers listed in hearing notices.
