Residents of Glen Rose, Texas, are vocalizing their opposition to a proposed high-voltage transmission line by Oncor Electric, which they believe threatens the integrity of the nearby Dinosaur Valley State Park. This park, renowned for its preserved dinosaur tracks in the Paluxy River, attracts approximately 230,000 visitors annually and serves as a key economic driver for the community.
The proposed 765 kilovolt transmission line aims to enhance the state’s power grid, reduce outages, and support the electrification of oil and gas operations in the Permian Basin. However, local residents fear that the project will cause irreparable harm to the park’s natural beauty and adversely affect tourism, which is vital to Glen Rose’s economy.
Concerns Over Environmental Impact and Visual Aesthetics
The transmission line is planned to extend roughly 250 miles from Dinosaur Valley State Park to a substation in West Texas. It would require a right of way approximately 200 feet wide and could encompass the park with high-voltage towers that may reach heights of 130 to 140 feet. Residents and local officials have expressed concerns about the visual impact these structures could have on the park’s “primitive, prehistoric” landscape, as described by Glen Rose Mayor Joe Boles.
Grassroots organizations, such as the Dinosaur Valley–Paluxy River Protection Alliance, are actively mobilizing support against the project. They have organized community meetings, sign-making sessions, and are encouraging residents to express their concerns to Oncor. State Representative Helen Kerwin has also joined the fight, labeling Dinosaur Valley State Park as the “crown jewel” of Texas’ park system and emphasizing the importance of its protection.
Community Action and Regulatory Process
The community’s reaction underscores a broader concern regarding the potential environmental damage, particularly to wildlife habitats and migratory bird corridors. Residents argue that the development lacks a comprehensive environmental analysis, which should include assessments of habitat fragmentation and other ecological impacts.
In defense of the project, Oncor Electric has stated that it has engaged with numerous landowners and conducted public meetings to address community concerns. The company acknowledges the significance of the project and its role in the state’s energy future. Oncor plans to submit its proposal to the Public Utility Commission (PUC) in February 2024, where officials will evaluate the potential impacts on recreation and park areas, as well as the historical and aesthetic value of the environment.
The regulatory process will also allow landowners to request state administrative hearings if they believe their property will be adversely affected. This ongoing debate highlights the challenge of balancing infrastructure development with the preservation of natural resources, as the future of Dinosaur Valley State Park and the surrounding community hangs in the balance.
The situation reflects a critical moment for Glen Rose as residents navigate the complexities of energy needs and environmental stewardship, with the local community urging regulatory bodies to prioritize the preservation of their cherished natural resources.
