ML20054M419

Comments on Des Re Installation of Overhead Power Transmission Lines.Proposed Lines Will Have Unacceptable Impact on Historic Area

ML20054M419
Person / Time
Site:	Seabrook
Issue date:	07/02/1982
From:	Bryant P, Shivik W, Verge A SOUTH HAMPTON, NH
To:	Office of Nuclear Reactor Regulation
References
NUDOCS 8207130175
Download: ML20054M419 (2)

Text

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.s.. HH OFFICE OF SELECTMEN SOUTH HAMPTON, NEW HAMPSHIRE JJ1y 2,1982 U. S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission Washington DC 20555 ATTN: Director Division of Licensing

Dear Sir:

As selectmen for the Town of South Hampton, New Hampshire, we would like t to take this opportunity to comment on the position of the Draft Environmental Statement which states that overhead power transmission lines would not have any unacceptable impact on the Town's historic area or environment. The proposed lines which will be suspended over 70 feet above the ground are in direct viclation of the towns zoning and historic ordinances. Additionally, it is our understandig the support towers and lines will be placed on 200 foot right-of-ways which will be kept free of natural plant life through the use of defoliants.

South Hampton is one of the few small rural towns remaining in Southern New Hampshire, and over the years its residents have made a concerted effort to maintain its unique character. In 1972 the town established specific zoning ordinances which forbid the erection of any structure in excess of 32 feet. Clearly the poles and transmission line would not receive zoning board approval and will destroy that which the town has tried to safeguard. In 1974 the town established various historic areas and at that time set up a historic commission to consider and approve any new construction or modifications in or within a 1000 yards of a designated area. The proposed route for the lines pass though one town approved historic districts (Jeweltown) and adjacent to (within 1000 yards) and in clear view of two others; Hilltop and Highland Road.

These area are of significant importance to the Town of South Hampton for the following reasons:

Jeweltown: Besides being one of the town's primary residential areas, it also contains the Pow Wow River which is a major recreational resource. The proposed lines cross the river and run directly through the historic district.

Highland Road: This district also represents a major residential area and includes many of the town's finer homes. Some of these horaes date back to the early 1700's. The proposed power line will be clearly visable in this historic area.

The Hilltop: Hilltop is in the center of South Hampton and contains the Town's hall, school and only church (all of these buildings are of historic significance). As the name depicts, this area is on higher ground and the power lines will be easily seen from both a northerly and easterly direction.

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8207130175 820702 PDR ADOCK 05000443 [O D PDR

We find it hard to believe that apparantly no consideration has been given to the effect the transmission lines will have in the Town of South Hampton. Overall, approximately 20% of the town's residents will directly view the power lines from their homes. It is our understanding that the Federal Power Commission has instructed public utilities to make every effort to avoid historic sites, scenic or recreational area

(" Electric Power Transmission and the Environment 1971"). Public Service Company of New Hampshire's response in "RAI-310.15" to the question involving historical resources was that there was not unacceptable impact. This statement may be true from their vantage point but is absolutely false in the opinion of all the residents of South Hampton.

For the past six years the people of South Hampton have attempted to inform and convince public officials of our situation. The results have been disappointing. Numerous town articles relating to the lines and resulting letters to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission have apparently fallen on deaf ears. The Commission's findings in the Draft Environmental Statement also dismisses our concerns.

In closing we want you to know that the people of South Hampton are not

" anti nuke". We only wish to preserve the rural and scenic environment we have chosen to live in.

Sincerely, ter r n,

-a w - ,

Ann W Ve -

g $,

Valter Shivik i