Pickaway – MadisonArea Improvements

AEP Ohio representatives plan power grid upgrades to improve electric reliability for customers in Pickaway and Madison counties. The Pickaway – Madison Area Improvements project is a two-phase project providing customers with an additional power source and upgrading the existing transmission equipment to ensure a reliable flow of electricity to customers.

During Phase 1, crews plan to build about 7 miles of 69-kilovolt (kV) transmission line to provide the additional power source and improve electric reliability in the area. In Phase 2, crews plan to rebuild 26 miles of 69-kV transmission line and replace the deteriorating wooden poles with modern equipment. Company representatives plan to rebuild the power line in the existing right-of-way, although they may need to acquire new easements or supplement current easements to ensure the safe construction, operation and maintenance of the line. The projected costs of the upgrades are approximately $50 million.

The project takes place in Pleasant Township in Madison County and Darby, Monroe, Muhlenberg, Scioto and Harrison townships in Pickaway County.

Early 2025: Phase 1 is now in service. Construction begins soon on the removal portion of the project. To prepare for the removal, crews plan to clear vegetation from the work area starting in January. The construction to retire and remove the transmission facilities is scheduled to begin in February and conclude by the end of March, depending on weather and other factors.

Crews expect to start Phase 2 construction in fall 2025.

Contract Land Staff (CLS) continues as the right-of-way contractor for the project. CLS representatives will continue to contact affected landowners to discuss upcoming project activities.