Cheat Lake, October 16, 2025
Residents of Cheat Lake, alongside West Virginia officials, expressed their strong opposition to the proposed MARL development during a public meeting. Concerns were raised about potential environmental harm and disruption to the community. The community fears that the project could lead to irreversible damage to their local ecosystem and quality of life. Attendees urged officials to take their concerns seriously and prioritize sustainable development that aligns with community needs.
Cheat Lake, West Virginia
Cheat Lake, West Virginia – On October 15, 2025, over 40 residents and state officials gathered at the Cheat Lake Volunteer Fire Station to voice strong opposition to the proposed MidAtlantic Resiliency Link (MARL) transmission line. The project, introduced by NextEra Energy Transmission, aims to construct a 107.5-mile, 500-kilovolt transmission line through five West Virginia counties, including Monongalia, Preston, Mineral, Hampshire, and Jefferson. Attendees expressed concerns over potential environmental impacts, property value depreciation, and community disruption.
Environmental and Community Concerns
Residents highlighted the environmental risks associated with the MARL project. The proposed transmission line would be supported by structures over 180 feet high, potentially disrupting local ecosystems and recreational areas. Additionally, there are apprehensions about the impact on property values for those living near Cheat Lake and other affected regions. Some residents, already experiencing the presence of existing high-powered power lines, fear further encroachment on their properties.
Official Opposition
State officials have also voiced their opposition to the MARL project. Delegate David McCormick, along with Delegate Evan Hansen, Monongalia County Commission President Jeff Arnett, and Granville Mayor Patty Lewis, attended the meeting to discuss strategies to prevent the transmission line from proceeding through West Virginia. They emphasized the potential negative effects on local communities and the state’s economic development initiatives.
Project Timeline and Next Steps
As of now, NextEra Energy plans to formally submit the proposed route for the MARL project to the West Virginia Public Service Commission by the end of the year. The project has already attracted significant public opposition, with over 880 residents voicing concerns and several county commissions passing resolutions against it. Community groups, including the West Virginians Against Transmission Line Injustice (WATI), are actively working to raise awareness and mobilize further opposition to the project.
Background on Cheat Lake
Cheat Lake is a 13-mile reservoir located on the Cheat River in Monongalia County, West Virginia. The lake serves as a recreational hub for residents and visitors, offering various activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking. The community surrounding Cheat Lake is known for its strong environmental stewardship and active participation in local governance.
Related Developments
In recent years, Cheat Lake residents have been involved in other significant environmental and infrastructure discussions. Notably, in September 2024, the Morgantown City Council approved a $50 million upgrade to the Cheat Lake Waste Water Treatment Plant, which is expected to result in a 91% rate increase for local residents. This development underscores the community’s ongoing engagement with environmental and infrastructure issues affecting the area.
Conclusion
The opposition to the MARL transmission line reflects the Cheat Lake community’s commitment to preserving their environment and quality of life. As the project progresses, ongoing dialogue between residents, officials, and stakeholders will be crucial in addressing concerns and exploring alternative solutions that align with the community’s values and needs.
FAQ
What is the MARL transmission line project?
The MARL transmission line project is a proposed 107.5-mile, 500-kilovolt transmission line introduced by NextEra Energy Transmission. It aims to pass through five West Virginia counties, including Monongalia, Preston, Mineral, Hampshire, and Jefferson, to deliver electricity from Pennsylvania to Northern Virginia data centers.
Why are Cheat Lake residents and officials opposing the project?
Residents and officials are concerned about potential environmental impacts, such as disruption to local ecosystems and recreational areas. They also fear that the project could lead to decreased property values and community disruption. Additionally, there are apprehensions about the project’s alignment with West Virginia’s economic development initiatives.
What is the current status of the MARL project?
As of October 2025, NextEra Energy plans to formally submit the proposed route for the MARL project to the West Virginia Public Service Commission by the end of the year. The project has faced significant public opposition, with over 880 residents voicing concerns and several county commissions passing resolutions against it.
What is Cheat Lake?
Cheat Lake is a 13-mile reservoir located on the Cheat River in Monongalia County, West Virginia. It serves as a recreational hub for residents and visitors, offering activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking. The community surrounding Cheat Lake is known for its strong environmental stewardship and active participation in local governance.
Have there been other significant developments in Cheat Lake recently?
Yes, in September 2024, the Morgantown City Council approved a $50 million upgrade to the Cheat Lake Waste Water Treatment Plant. This upgrade is expected to result in a 91% rate increase for local residents, highlighting the community’s ongoing engagement with environmental and infrastructure issues affecting the area.
Key Features of the MARL Transmission Line Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Project Length | 107.5 miles |
| Voltage | 500 kilovolts |
| Proposed Route | Through five West Virginia counties: Monongalia, Preston, Mineral, Hampshire, and Jefferson |
| Primary Purpose | To deliver electricity from Pennsylvania to Northern Virginia data centers |
| Community Concerns | Environmental impact, property value depreciation, and community disruption |
| Official Opposition | Over 880 residents and several county commissions have voiced opposition |
| Project Timeline | Formal submission to the West Virginia Public Service Commission by the end of 2025 |
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Author: VIRGINIA STAFF WRITER
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