Loudoun News Briefs

Thursday, March 12, 2009

Webb Urges Delay In Power Line Plans

U.S. Sen. James Webb (D-Va.) sent letters to the chief executives of three electricity companies Monday, urging them to delay submitting Potomac-Appalachian Transmission Highline proposals to the Virginia State Corporation Commission until residents of Loudoun and Frederick counties have been given time to voice concerns.

"I have heard from many Virginians and the elected officials of the affected counties. Of great concern to me is the degree to which they believe that their voices have been ignored in the shaping of the proposed project," Webb wrote in his letters to PJM Interconnection, American Electric Power and Allegheny Energy. "It is critical that these communities be given sufficient opportunity to participate before the proposal is rushed to the SCC for final approval."

The high-voltage power line, known as PATH, would go through a 10.5-mile stretch of the Lovettsville area and parts of West Virginia and Maryland. The project is opposed by the Loudoun Board of Supervisors, the Leesburg Town Council and Rep. Frank R. Wolf (R-Va.), among others. Many Lovettesville area residents have expressed concerns about the need for the power line and its impact on property values.

The line would not serve Lovettsville homes and businesses directly, but utility officials have said it would feed into the overall electrical grid and could help prevent blackouts.

Applications Sought For Tourism Grants

The Loudoun Convention & Visitors Association announced Tuesday that it is accepting applications from tourism businesses for marketing funds.

Applications will be considered for tourism projects and promotions taking place in Loudoun during the year that begins July 1. Meetings will begin at 5:30 p.m. March 24 and at 2:30 p.m. March 30 at the association's office at 112-G South St. SE in Leesburg to provide details about the application process and the types of projects that will be considered for funding. The deadline to apply is April 24.

Those interested in attending either meeting should respond to Stacey Sheetz by the previous Friday at 703-771-2170, Ext. 20, or sheetz@visitloudoun.org. For information, visit www.visitloudoun.org/lcva/marketing/coopfund.

Flushing of Water Mains Planned in Purcellville

Purcellville officials said Tuesday that they will flush water distribution mains throughout the town from March 29 through April. Flushing will occur between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m.

Some water customers may experience sporadic cases of dirty water or low water pressure for short periods because of the opening and closing of valves, officials said. They said the flushing is to ensure that the town is providing adequate water pressure and flow for fire protection.

Tagged: Ashburn, Lovettsville, power line, Purcellville, spelling bee, Stone Bridge High School, tourism, U.S. Sen. Jim Webb

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