THUNDER BAY — Some landowners are still holding out, but Hydro One is preparing to start construction of the $1.2 billion Waasigan Transmission Line regardless.
The utility expects to have shovels in the ground next month, now that the final environmental assessment report for the project has received approval from the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks.
In announcing the approval Tuesday, Hydro One vice-president Sonny Karunakaran said planning for the new high-voltage transmission line from the Lakehead Transformer Station in Shuniah to Atikokan and Dryden "was shaped by feedback and guidance we have received over several years, and we look forward to continued engagement."
However, a number of property-owners remain resistant to signing voluntary agreements that provide compensation for a right-of-way.
Robin Sadko, spokesperson for Neighbours On the Line in the Kaministiquia area, said the group is "very disappointed" with the environmental approval, "because we wrote letters with all our concerns and they never really mentioned us, and just carried on."
She said she's aware of five landowners in the area who are prepared to force Hydro One to go through the process of expropriation.
But Karunakaran called the environmental assessment "a good record" and a reflection of the outreach Hydro One and its Indigenous partners have conducted for several years.
"We will continue to work with all residents as we move forward into the construction phases," he said, adding that property owners are encouraged to attend open houses the utility has scheduled for the end of the month.
According to Hydro One, more than 80 per cent of landowners along the route have signed the voluntary agreement, and 95 per cent have allowed early access for preconstruction work.
Karunakaran said he still believes a settlement can be reached with those who have yet to sign.
Open houses to discuss details of the construction plans are scheduled for Atikokan on Oct. 28, the Current River Community Centre on Oct. 29, and the Kam Community Centre on Oct. 30.
The Waasigan Transmission Line is a being built in partnership with nine First Nations who have agreements to invest in a 50 per cent equity stake in the project.
"We are proud to see that our Anishinaabe teachings, knowledge and respect for the land guided this environmental assessment... We want to thank the First Nations leadership and all our Elders for their guidance, teachings and contributions," said Daniel Morrisseau, president of Gwayakocchigewin LP which represents eight of the participating First Nations.
Thunder Bay-Atikokan MPP Kevin Holland, and the mayors of Shuniah, Atikokan and Dryden also welcomed Tuesday's announcement.
