UI's Proposed Monopole Project In Bridgeport & Fairfield Rejected By CT Siting Council

BRIDGEPORT, CT — The Connecticut Siting Council on Thursday rejected United Illuminating's proposed monopole project for parts of Bridgeport and Fairfield, a stinging defeat for the utility company, which now must consider mounting a new proposal that members of both communities could support.

The council voted 5-3 against the plan, which called for the installation of dozens of tall monopoles throughout parts of both communities that would carry high-voltage power lines. Opponents of the project argued that such a plan would adversely affect the communities, and require the seizure of some private land to accommodate the effort.

"We are deeply appreciative of the Siting Council’s thoughtful and deliberate approach," said Bridgeport Mayor Joe Ganim in a statement. "Their vote demonstrates respect for our residents, our partners in Fairfield, and the integrity of our neighborhoods. By choosing to reject the proposal, the Council has affirmed its commitment to responsible infrastructure planning and to finding equitable solutions that protect quality of life, foster economic growth, and preserve the character of our communities. The City of Bridgeport remains committed to working collaboratively toward energy solutions that balance progress with environmental and social responsibility that are in the best interest of our residents."

Added Fairfield First Selectwoman Christine Vitale, "This is a tremendous win for Fairfield and Bridgeport, and for every resident who showed up, spoke up, and worked tirelessly in opposition to a project that was damaging to the very foundations of our community. The Siting Council listened to the people of our communities, and was convinced by the irrefutable facts that this was a flawed design. Their decision today affirms that our voices matter and that by standing together we can make a difference. We are deeply grateful to our residents, our partners in Bridgeport including Mayor Joe Ganim, our dedicated elected officials in the legislature, and Governor Ned Lamont for hearing our concerns and responding to them."

Sarah Wall Fliotsos, spokesperson for UI, said the utility company is considering legal options related to the decision.

"We are stunned by the change in the Siting Council’s decision today with no explanation," Fliotsos said. "In fact, before voting to reject the application, the Siting Council reviewed without criticism a draft order to approve the project. To be clear, the Siting Council has already confirmed the public need for this project. The public deserves to know what caused three members to change their votes and if they were improperly pressured, and we are exploring all legal options that can be taken in response to this arbitrary and capricious vote. UI will continue to work to ensure that critical reliability and resiliency projects are completed at the lowest cost possible for our customers."

Read More:

• Fairfield & Bridgeport Team Up To Oppose UI's Proposed Monopole Project
• Court Overturns Controversial Decision; Ruling Is A Victory For Fairfield And Bridgeport
• Huge Price Tag For Underground Transmission Line Project In Fairfield & Bridgeport: UI

UI has said that the project is necessary to upgrade its service, and harden it against potential natural disasters. Opponents of the proposal have consistently said they want the power lines buried, but UI says that an above-ground solution would cost an estimated $300 million, while a below-ground project would cost more than $1 billion.

"We will continue to advocate for modern and environmentally responsible electrical infrastructure," Vitale said. "In 2024, Governor Lamont signed a significant piece of legislation, HB 5507, into law, with reforms now in place to correct regulatory bias and enhance the participation and rights of Connecticut residents, businesses and municipalities in infrastructure siting and construction decisions."

State Sen. Tony Hwang said the council's decision was a "crucial step toward restoring public trust."

"This is not about stopping progress, this is about doing it right," Hwang said. "We can and must build critical infrastructure in a way that respects environmental impact, neighborhoods and historic sites, and most importantly, the people who live in these communities."