Replace 214377 FT High Voltage Under Water Power Distribution Line

The National Park Service (NPS) proposes to authorize installation of a replacement medium voltage (15-kilovolt class) electric line to provide reliable power to the Kettle Falls area within Voyageurs National Park (the park). The power line supplies power to the historic Kettle Falls Hotel, restaurant, and other facilities run by concessioners that serve thousands of visitors a year. The proposed project includes multiple subaqueous portions of cable, as well as several upland junction points, and a larger upland portion of work within the Kettle Falls area. The project area includes the Kettle Falls Historic District.

The proposed project will correct deficiencies in the underwater line and transformer boxes. Due to lightning strikes and an exposed neutral wire, the line has been compromised, resulting in intermittent power outages of varying duration. The compromised neutral wire poses a safety risk to park visitors and employees. There is no backup power supply, so loss of electricity periodically forces closure of the Kettle Falls Hotel and related facilities risks food spoiling in cold storage at the restaurant and disables the electric fire suppression system at the hotel. Increased electrical outages over the years due to the compromised primary distribution cable have resulted in a loss of revenue at the Kettle Falls Hotel. The proposed project will reduce the frequency and duration of power outages, improve safety, and reduce costs in the long term.

Contact Information

Brian Harmon, Superintendent (Acting)

Program Lead for Natural and Cultural Resource Management

Voyageurs National Park

218-283-6674