An Arkansas Public Service Commission administrative law judge has approved a utility's plan for a high-voltage transmission line through Benton and Carroll counties.
Judge Connie Griffin has recommended that Southwest Electric Power Co. construct its transmission line along Route 109, which was the northernmost option and cuts through Missouri for about 25 miles.
A group opposed to the transmission line, Save the Ozarks, says it will appeal. The group had urged Griffin to reject SWEPCO's plan for a transmission line in the area, saying it would have adverse effects on the environment and tourism.
But SWEPCO says it needs a transmission line in the area to provide reliable electric service to northern Arkansas and southern Missouri.
The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reports the Arkansas Public Service Commission must consider the decision.
