(Berrien County, MI) - Indiana Michigan Power Company is adjusting its plans to rebuild a high voltage line from New Buffalo to Bridgman, and as a result, the utility company has scheduled meetings to collect feedback from the public.

According to I&M officials, the 75 foot tall steel or wooden poles to potentially comprise the structure would be about 10 feet shorter than originally planned.

The width of easements obtained for the work would also be reduced from 60 feet to 40 feet.  Reimbursement would also be offered for removal of trees on private property within the proposed easement.

According to the utility company, the upgrades would provide a stronger transmission grid to four local substations, as well as reduce outages. 

A majority of the existing wooden poles on the route date back to the 1960’s.

Public meetings to go over the change in plans are scheduled for October 9th at the Chikaming Township Center in Harbert and October 10th in the gymnasium at Three Oaks Elementary School.

Each session will begin at 6:30 p.m. (EST)