AEP Transmission representatives plan power grid upgrades in Hancock and Wood counties.
The North Baltimore-Portage Transmission Line Rebuild Project involves:
Upgrading the line with modern facilities improves the line's operational performance, reduces the likelihood of extended power outages and speeds recovery of service when outages occur.
Building a new power line will help to reconfigure and strengthen the transmission grid, allowing the company to retire deteriorating facilities from the 1940's.
Fall 2026: AEP Transmission's project team evaluated a series of route links using community feedback received during stakeholder meetings, the in-person open house and during the public comment period. The project team also considered future land use, potential environmental impacts and constructability measures. Based on this review, the project team proposed a final line route. Landowners along the proposed final route may be contacted by Contract Land Staff, LLC, the right-of-way vendor representing AEP Transmission for this project, regarding permission for field surveys, easements and next steps. Easements provide defined property rights to allow the utility access needed to safely build, operate and maintain its power lines. For immediate questions, you can reach out to J.W. Kline, lead CLS right-of-way agent, at 614-482-1693 or jw.kline@contractlandstaff.com.
Spring 2026: AEP Transmission representatives have identified a need for additional improvements, including:
AEP Transmission representatives requested landowner feedback on possible study segments for the 1-mile power line during a month-long public comment period.
This project involves the use of steel, single poles.
Typical Pole Height: Approximately 70-80 feet*
Typical Right-of-Way Width: Approximately 60 feet*
*Exact structure types, height and right-of-way requirements may vary
Ohio Power Company provides electricity to nearly 1.5 million customers.
Project Outreach Specialist
614-933-2998
AEPOhio_Outreach@aep.com