GAI has partnered with a leading utility in the Northeast, successfully completing hundreds of projects across their multi-state service area. Our support for this client encompasses transmission lines ranging from less than one mile to over 150 miles (mostly 46kV, 69kV, 115kV, 130kV, 138kV, 230kV, and 500kV), as well as distribution networks (34kV and under), substations, and fiber optic installations. Each project benefits from a diverse array of services we provide, often necessitating a comprehensive approach that includes most or all of the following:

• Siting studies for transmission lines and substations
• Expert testimony
• State utility commission application support
• Access road, pull area, and work pad identification, constructability reviews, and civil and geotechnical engineering design (60%/90%/Issued for Construction [IFC])
• Orthodrawings
• Regulatory agency initial consultations
• Environmental resource field studies
• Special protection species consultations and presence/absence surveys
• Bat surveys
• Botanical surveys
• Estimate of conceptual Erosion and Sediment (E&S) pollution control quantities
• E&S control plans
• Civil and geotechnical engineering, subsurface investigations, and construction packages for substation and structure pads
• Geotechnical monitoring
• Federal and state waterways and wetlands permitting
• Cultural resources initial consultations and investigations (Phase I, II, and III)
• Architectural surveys
• Phase I Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs)
• State stream and wetland assessment protocols
• National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permitting
• Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP)
• Local and municipal permitting and consultation
• Survey services including stakeout, topographic, and boundary surveys
• Easement exhibit and legal descriptions
• Roadway permitting
• Environmental permit binders
• Geotechnical analysis and recommendations
• Environmental staff augmentation
• Attending public meetings, providing handout materials and mapping, and assisting with securing venues

For example, GAI is currently providing, or is scheduled to provide, many of the above services for the 150+ mile rebuild of an existing 115kV transmission line through multiple counties.

Highlights, Successes, Challenges Met

GAI oversees a comprehensive program of projects for this client, collaborating with various stakeholders, including different groups within our client’s organization, subcontractors, federal, state, local, and municipal entities. These projects span multiple states and diverse terrains.