To support asset separation from a Great River Hydro, LLC electric substation facility, National Grid designed and constructed a new 115-kV substation in Vernon, VT. The project required natural resource assessments and state and federal permitting for the reconstruction of transmission and subtransmission structures in New Hampshire and reconductoring across the Connecticut River. VHB conducted natural resource field assessments, reporting, and mapping and submitted the necessary state permit applications over several years. VHB also participated in the Vermont Section 248 permitting process, providing pre-filed testimony related to environmental criteria and technical support to the project team.
VHB also supported National Grid with site-civil design services, leveraging experience with stormwater design and permitting in Vermont to minimize the need for stormwater treatment controls on the constrained project site, which is located on a bluff over the Connecticut River. VHB developed a grading plan for hilly terrain with sandy soils, using 3D modeling to allow for visualizing the finished project surface and calculating cut/fill volumes. As the project progresses, VHB will provide construction oversight services.