Agenda packet — City Council and Authorities Concurrent, November 12, 2024 (part 9 of 13)

“Provide a safe and reliable transportation network that serves all people and respects the environment.” safety criteria and restrictions defined in the ALUCP, adopted by the ALUC pursuant to PUC Section 21674. The project also contains portions in the 70dB and 75dB Aircraft Noise Contours. The City of Santa Clara should consider the safety zone and noise compatibility polices stipulated in the ALUCP.

The proposed project must comply with requirements outlined by the FAA, specified in Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Part 77. (14 CFR Part 77). Title 14 CFR Part

77.9 provides vertical and horizontal criteria for construction near an airport. Moreover, the California Public Utilities Code Section 21659 prohibits structural hazards near airports. An Obstruction Analysis will be required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in accordance with Federal Aviation Regulation, Part 77 “Objects Affecting Navigable Airspace.” To ensure compliance notices should be submitted to the FAA’s Obstacle Evaluation Group (OEG) online (link).

Project Management
If the project requires freeway lane closures during construction, Caltrans must review and approve lane closure timing and traffic handling plans in the Encroachment Permit process. Maintenance of these transmission lines must be the responsibility of the sponsoring agency, which may require an amendment to existing maintenance agreements.

Additionally, Caltrans has a planned pavement preservation project that is in the vicinity of the proposed project. Coordination may be required during the construction phase.

Construction-Related Impacts
Project work that requires movement of oversized or excessive load vehicles on State roadways requires a transportation permit that is issued by Caltrans. To apply, please visit Caltrans Transportation Permits (link).Prior to construction, coordination may be required with Caltrans to develop a Transportation Management Plan (TMP) to reduce construction traffic impacts to the State Transportation Network (STN).

Lead Agency
As the Lead Agency, the City is responsible for all project mitigation, including any needed improvements to the STN. The project’s fair share contribution, financing, scheduling, implementation responsibilities and lead agency monitoring should be fully discussed for all proposed mitigation measures.

Encroachment Permit
Please be advised that any permanent work or temporary traffic control, or any modification or additional work that encroaches onto Caltrans’ Right of Way (ROW) requires a Caltrans-issued encroachment permit and coordination with Caltrans. As part of the encroachment permit submittal process, you may be asked by the Office H-62
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Allie Jackman, Project Manager
August 29, 2024

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“Provide a safe and reliable transportation network that serves all people and respects the environment.” of Encroachment Permits to submit a completed encroachment permit application package, digital set of plans clearly delineating Caltrans’ ROW, digital copy of signed, dated and stamped (include stamp expiration date) traffic control plans, this comment letter, your response to the comment letter, and where applicable, the following items: new or amended Maintenance Agreement (MA), approved Design Standard Decision Document (DSDD), approved encroachment exception request, and/or airspace lease agreement. All proposed work must be submitted through a Caltrans Encroachment Permit process. The proposed project may require an encroachment policy exception for a permit to be issued so coordinate with the Encroachment Permit office closely.

The Office of Encroachment Permit requires 100% complete design plans and supporting documents to review and circulate the permit application package. To obtain more information and download the permit application, please visit Caltrans Encroachment Permits (link). Please note that the checklist TR-0416 is used to determine the appropriate Caltrans review process for encroachment projects. Your application package may be emailed to [email protected].

Thank you again for including Caltrans in the environmental review process. Should you have any questions regarding this letter, please contact Marley Mathews, Associate Transportation Planner, via [email protected].

For future early coordination opportunities or project referrals, please visit Caltrans LDR website (link) or contact [email protected].

Sincerely,

MARLEY MATHEWS
Acting Branch Chief, Local Development Review
Office of Regional and Community Planning
c: State Clearinghouse
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1 Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line
From: Kanupriya Kabra <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, August 29, 2024 12:47 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project
To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #1 : CEQA’s reporting includes these State reviewing agencies: California Air Resources Board (ARB), California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Bay Delta Region 3 (CDFW), California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), California Department of Parks and Recreation, California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), California Department of Transportation, District 4 (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Aeronautics (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Transportation Planning (DOT), California Department of Water Resources (DWR), California Energy Commission, California Highway Patrol (CHP), California Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC), California Natural Resources Agency, California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), California Regional Water Quality Control Board, San Francisco Bay Region 2 (RWQCB), Office of Historic Preservation, State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water.

Personal observation#1 : None of these agencies has any association with human health. CEQA reporting is not qualified enough to force the public to compromise on health concerns. Other agencies need to be involved to review this proposal, that are qualified to study the effect on “ humans”, not just wildlife and vegetation, or “ environment. The checklist is completely devoid of our gravest humanitarian concerns. It is quite shocking that the project has not included any study to understand the potential impact of EMF waves on human lives, given that the transmission lines are potentially less than 60 feet from the closest dwellings. The city of Santa Clara needs to step in and have third party/ independent studies completed in favor of human health.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

Personal observation#2 : This consideration was completely absent earlier. Only after the residents raised their voices, this section was added. To our greatest disappointment, this section is copied over from an older report on the “South Loop Reconfiguration Project” from 2020. One would have expected that a new study would have been conducted for a project this size. The lack of due diligence and ignorance towards the specifics of this project are apparent and not acceptable. In fact we have found several sections of this older report as being reused across the entire report.

The EMP map shared during the in person meeting had several flaws and we would like to question the viability of the study that was completed. What time of the day was the study completed and on what models were the values based on since these were done on assumption for the EMF values that would be there once the project is complete. Since we have seen the several sections of the report redundantly copied over from other reports, we would like a more detailed analysis of this report.

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2 Regarding EMF concerns for human health, there are plenty of scientific studies that do indicate the grave concern on human health with EMF exposures and we cannot ignore this aspect. Here is a reference to an article and there are plenty of articles listed here under references:
https://psc.wi.gov/Documents/Brochures/EMF.pdf
There are not enough references listed in the draft report provided to us, and the explanation provided seems to be conveniently using studies that prove otherwise. This needs more investigation and references. The solution provided as raising the height of the poles and increasing the distance is nonexistent. It was confirmed during the in person meeting that the design will not be altered and the height was already designed as required according to the SVP team present there. It seems that the preparers of this report did not even read the report after copying pasting from the old report as evident in the list of proposed solutions is not applicable here.

The live presentation on August 22nd showed the comparison of EMF values of household objects as a means to show that everyday household items carry a similar range of mG( milli Gauss) units. This comparison was inherently flawed since it mentioned that the household devices were producing those level at 1 feet while those indicated for 115KVf lines were at 60 feet. further these household devices do not operate 24X7 similar to the transmission lines.

There were a lot of citations of reports showcasing that no clear proof of EMF to human health exists but we would like to also point out certain states like Connecticut Department of Public Health have cited reports that have shown an increased incidence of childhood leukemia( Blood cancer) at avg exposure of only 3 mG. Also they have called out that some utility workers exposed to high levels of emf have increase risks of Lur Gehrig's disease.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet.

These are available on Page 2 & Page 3 of this report: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/departmentsand-agencies/dph/dph/environmental_health/eoha/pdf/emffactsheet2008pdf.pdf This report has citations from WHO , National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and California Department of Health Services.
https://www.niehs.nih.gov/sites/default/files/health/materials/electric_and_magnetic_fields_associ ated_with_the_use_of_electric_power_questions_and_answers_english_508.pdf Reference #3

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Personal observation#3
The railway line's proximity to the proposed high transmission lines is very concerning. The centerline distance from proposed lines to railway line is aproximately 50 feet per google maps with some margin for error. As per the report there are no Corona rings proposed for the 115KV lines. There seems to be negligence in design in consideration of the hazards posed by these high voltage lines as Corona effect can transfer current to railway lines. All the residents are at a high risk of accidental hazards given the proximity of the railway line, this project is adding on to the hazards. This section is only stating information about what Corona effect is, as may be required by law, which by the way is again a copy paste from an old report. The only concern discussed in more depth is the audible noise level. The concerns are presented to imply that this is not significant by stating that 115KV lines pose less than significant risk.

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3 Reference #4: Post meeting material from March 19th 2024 @https://santaclara.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6582415&GUID=E6E14646-3CF7-4D15- BB98-F18580696012&Options=&Search=
Personal observation#4: At surface level, it looks like Option #A was selected only based on Cost perspective, without any consideration to human health, young children, property values, Corona effect, long term sustainability perspective or any other factors. While its important to understand the results of CEQA study, its extremely critical to understand the negative impact of EMF on the many young children living around the proposed transmission lines. Without extensive research and study on the impact to young children and adult heath, we should not be approving such an incomplete proposal.

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discussions with several real estate agents in the region, I have unanimously found all to agree that the real estate values of residences in close proximity to power lines goes down. Its hard to find potential buyers and most folks refrain from buying a house too close to high power transmission lines. There are 1000 plus residences in the area affected by this project. Even if we were to make very rough assumptions, and assume minimal cost reduction in property values and take an average loss of $100,000 per property in the current year, that goes to $100,000,000 of loss of equity to the public. This is not even accounting the businesses affected by this project. This long explanation was to raise a point that if the selection of route A was saving money to the city, this is costing a huge financial loss to the public, which is not acceptable. This decrease in property values will also directly impact the tax collection by the Santa Clara Assessor and result in lower tax revenue coming into the city of Santa Clara.

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

The Mission Garden Townhome community has no walls as such and the main entry to residences face the road directly and are the most impacted. There are several other single family homes on Lafayette street with the same impact, having an entryway directly on the street. This and including other citations of reusing sections of older reports, is all in all absolutely unacceptable and instills distrust. This further shows incompetency of the agency/ agencies preparing this report.

Conclusion: This project's initial study needs to expand beyond CEQA for approval from the public. The limited scope of CEQA has failed to address the following concerns we have:

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5 • Health hazards due to EMF levels.- This is by far the gravest concern and CEQA is clearly not qualified to study that.
• Reduced property values- several references provided below. • Loss of Aesthetic appeal for potential real estate buyers/ new and current businesses. • Increase in audible noise levels during and post construction, which is already high in the area with presence of railway line and air traffic route.
• Increased fire hazard/ risk of other accidents.
• Induced current on railway lines with close proximity/ corona effect- CEQA report did not clearly address this for a 115KV line.
• Economic effect on the community from small to larger scale based on all of the above.

We demand further investigation and revisit other routes or proposals to resolve the power needs of the city. We have to ensure our and our kids’ health is not at stake in the name of development and infrastructure and are not in agreement for this project to move forward. We cannot approve this to move forward as of now given the lack of study and absence of a satisfactory solution/ mitigation provided in favor/ assurance to public health.

Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

2. https://www.epa.gov/radtown/electric-and-magnetic-fields-power-lines This resource suggests taking precautions and keeping distance or limiting exposure. Residents would no longer have either of these two options per the current proposals if they are living there 24-7.

3. https://www.fastexpert.com/blog/should-i-buy-a-house-near-power-lines/ These are points of view from a real estate expert who clearly states that property value declines proportionately to the distance of the property from high tension lines. People have apprehensions whether or not research clearly defines the risk. Potential buyers might have low priority for a property too close to a high tension power line.

4. https://orchard.com/blog/posts/power-lines-and-property-value Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity.

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1 Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line
From: Harsha Priya <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, August 29, 2024 4:18 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project
To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

The EMP map shared during the in person meeting had several flaws and we would like to question the viability of the study that was completed. What time of the day was the study completed and on what models were the values based on since these were done on assumption for the EMF values that would H-69
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2 be there once the project is complete. Since we have seen the several sections of the report redundantly copied over from other reports, we would like a more detailed analysis of this report.

Regarding EMF concerns for human health, there are plenty of scientific studies that do indicate the grave concern on human health with EMF exposures and we cannot ignore this aspect. Here is a reference to an article and there are plenty of articles listed here under references:
https://psc.wi.gov/Documents/Brochures/EMF.pdf
There are not enough references listed in the draft report provided to us, and the explanation provided seems to be conveniently using studies that prove otherwise. This needs more investigation and references. The solution provided as raising the height of the poles and increasing the distance is nonexistent. It was confirmed during the in person meeting that the design will not be altered and the height was already designed as required according to the SVP team present there. It seems that the preparers of this report did not even read the report after copying pasting from the old report as evident in the list of proposed solutions is not applicable here.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet.

Page 174 ends

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3 Reference #4: Post meeting material from March 19th 2024 @https://santaclara.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6582415&GUID=E6E14646-3CF7-4D15- BB98-F18580696012&Options=&Search=
Personal observation#4: At surface level, it looks like Option #A was selected only based on Cost perspective, without any consideration to human health, young children, property values, Corona effect, long term sustainability perspective or any other factors. While its important to understand the results of CEQA study, its extremely critical to understand the negative impact of EMF on the many young children living around the proposed transmission lines. Without extensive research and study on the impact to young children and adult heath, we should not be approving such an incomplete proposal.

Page 6 ends

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

The Mission Garden Townhome community has no walls as such and the main entry to residences face the road directly and are the most impacted. There are several other single family homes on Lafayette street with the same impact, having an entryway directly on the street. This and including other citations H-72
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5 of reusing sections of older reports, is all in all absolutely unacceptable and instills distrust. This further shows incompetency of the agency/ agencies preparing this report.

Conclusion: This project's initial study needs to expand beyond CEQA for approval from the public. The limited scope of CEQA has failed to address the following concerns we have:
• Health hazards due to EMF levels.- This is by far the gravest concern and CEQA is clearly not qualified to study that.
• Reduced property values- several references provided below. • Loss of Aesthetic appeal for potential real estate buyers/ new and current businesses. • Increase in audible noise levels during and post construction, which is already high in the area with presence of railway line and air traffic route.
• Increased fire hazard/ risk of other accidents.
• Induced current on railway lines with close proximity/ corona effect- CEQA report did not clearly address this for a 115KV line.
• Economic effect on the community from small to larger scale based on all of the above.

Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

4. https://orchard.com/blog/posts/power-lines-and-property-value Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity.

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1 Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line
From: Aadya Shrotriya <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, August 29, 2024 4:55 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project
To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

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2 Regarding EMF concerns for human health, there are plenty of scientific studies that do indicate the grave concern on human health with EMF exposures and we cannot ignore this aspect. Here is a reference to an article and there are plenty of articles listed here under references:
https://psc.wi.gov/Documents/Brochures/EMF.pdf
There are not enough references listed in the draft report provided to us, and the explanation provided seems to be conveniently using studies that prove otherwise. This needs more investigation and references. The solution provided as raising the height of the poles and increasing the distance is nonexistent. It was confirmed during the in person meeting that the design will not be altered and the height was already designed as required according to the SVP team present there. It seems that the preparers of this report did not even read the report after copying pasting from the old report as evident in the list of proposed solutions is not applicable here.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet.

Page 174 ends

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3 Reference #4: Post meeting material from March 19th 2024 @https://santaclara.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6582415&GUID=E6E14646-3CF7-4D15- BB98-F18580696012&Options=&Search=
Personal observation#4: At surface level, it looks like Option #A was selected only based on Cost perspective, without any consideration to human health, young children, property values, Corona effect, long term sustainability perspective or any other factors. While its important to understand the results of CEQA study, its extremely critical to understand the negative impact of EMF on the many young children living around the proposed transmission lines. Without extensive research and study on the impact to young children and adult heath, we should not be approving such an incomplete proposal.

Page 6 ends

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

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5 Conclusion: This project's initial study needs to expand beyond CEQA for approval from the public. The limited scope of CEQA has failed to address the following concerns we have:
• Health hazards due to EMF levels.- This is by far the gravest concern and CEQA is clearly not qualified to study that.
• Reduced property values- several references provided below. • Loss of Aesthetic appeal for potential real estate buyers/ new and current businesses. • Increase in audible noise levels during and post construction, which is already high in the area with presence of railway line and air traffic route.
• Increased fire hazard/ risk of other accidents.
• Induced current on railway lines with close proximity/ corona effect- CEQA report did not clearly address this for a 115KV line.
• Economic effect on the community from small to larger scale based on all of the above.

Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

4. https://orchard.com/blog/posts/power-lines-and-property-value Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity.

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Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line
From: Jigisha Shukla <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, August 29, 2024 10:34 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Urgent Concerns Regarding NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project Dear Santa Clara Officials,
I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the proposed NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project, connecting the Northern Receiving Station (NRS) to Kifer Receiving Station (KRS). As a resident of Santa Clara, I believe this project, as currently proposed, poses significant risks to our community's health, safety, and property values.

Key Concerns:

1. Health Risks from EMF Exposure: The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) assessment for this project has inadequately addressed the potential health impacts of electromagnetic fields (EMF) on residents. The report fails to include studies from agencies qualified to assess human health risks, particularly regarding the effects of EMF on people living within 60 feet of these highvoltage lines. Numerous studies indicate serious health concerns, including increased risks of childhood leukemia and other diseases, with prolonged EMF exposure. I urge you to commission independent, third-party studies to thoroughly evaluate these risks before moving forward.

2. Inadequate Consideration of EMF Impact: The section on Electric and Magnetic Fields (EMF) in the draft report appears to be copied from an outdated 2020 study related to a different project. The lack of a dedicated, up-to-date study for this specific project is unacceptable. The EMF map shared during recent meetings contained several flaws, including unclear assumptions and questionable accuracy. Different areas that are not relevant, have been misrepresented as subject areas. Given the potential for cumulative EMF effects, especially with the planned electrification of nearby railway lines, a comprehensive, current analysis is essential.

3. Potential Decrease in Property Values: The proximity of these transmission lines to residential areas is likely to cause a significant drop in property values. Real estate experts confirm that homes near high-tension power lines are harder to sell and typically suffer substantial devaluation. With over 1,000 homes potentially affected, the financial loss to homeowners could far exceed any savings the city might gain by choosing the current route. This decrease in property values would also reduce the city’s tax revenue.

4. Increased Safety Risks: The proposed transmission lines’ proximity to the railway line raises serious safety concerns, particularly the risk of induced currents from the Corona effect. The CEQA report does not adequately address these hazards, which could have catastrophic consequences for nearby residents.

I strongly urge the City of Santa Clara to pause this project until a more thorough evaluation of its impacts can be conducted. This should include independent health studies, a reassessment of property devaluation risks, and a reconsideration of alternative routes or designs that prioritize public safety and well-being. Our community deserves better than a project that could compromise our health, safety, and financial security.

Thank you for your attention to these critical issues.

Jigisha Shukla
Mission Gardens community resident
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Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line
From: Jigisha Shukla <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, August 29, 2024 10:44 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Concerns Regarding NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Dear Santa Clara Officials,
I am writing to express my deep concern about the proposed NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project, which would connect the Northern Receiving Station (NRS) to Kifer Receiving Station (KRS). As a Santa Clara resident, I believe this project, in its current form, poses significant risks to our community's health, safety, and property values.

1. Health Risks from EMF Exposure
• The CEQA assessment inadequately addresses potential health impacts of electromagnetic fields (EMF) on residents.
• No studies from agencies qualified to assess human health risks are included. • Numerous studies indicate serious health concerns with prolonged EMF exposure, including increased risks of childhood leukemia.
• Action Needed: Commission independent, third-party studies to thoroughly evaluate these risks.

2. Inadequate EMF Impact Assessment
• The EMF section in the draft report appears copied from an outdated 2020 study for a different project. • The EMF map shared at recent meetings contains flaws, including unclear assumptions and questionable accuracy.
• Potential cumulative EMF effects, especially with planned railway electrification, are not addressed. • Action Needed: Conduct a comprehensive, current EMF analysis specific to this project.

3. Potential Property Value Decrease
• Proximity to high-tension power lines typically causes significant property devaluation. • Over 1,000 homes could be affected, potentially resulting in financial losses exceeding any city savings from the current route.
• Decreased property values would also reduce city tax revenue. • Action Needed: Reassess the economic impact on homeowners and city finances.

4. Increased Safety Risks
• The transmission lines' proximity to the railway raises serious safety concerns, particularly the risk of induced currents from the Corona effect.
• The CEQA report does not adequately address these potential hazards. • Action Needed: Conduct a thorough safety assessment, particularly regarding the interaction between the power lines and nearby railway.

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I strongly urge the City of Santa Clara to:

1. Pause this project pending a more thorough evaluation of its impacts.

2. Commission independent health studies on EMF exposure.

3. Reassess the risk of property devaluation and its broader economic impact.

4. Reconsider alternative routes or designs that prioritize public safety and well-being.

Our community deserves a project that does not compromise our health, safety, and financial security.

Thank you for your attention to these critical issues.

Sincerely,
Jigisha Shukla
Concerned Santa Clara Resident
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1 Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line
From: Praveen <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, August 29, 2024 4:59 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Issues Raised Regarding the "NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project" Greetings,
We, the residents of Santa Clara, collectively express our concerns regarding the "NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project" based on the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration from July 2024.

Reference #1: Lack of Human Health Considerations
• The CEQA reporting includes numerous state reviewing agencies, but none are associated with human health. This deficiency disqualifies CEQA from assessing health concerns. • The project lacks studies to understand the potential impact of EMF waves on human lives, despite the proximity of transmission lines to dwellings.
• We request that the City of Santa Clara commission independent studies focused on human health.

Reference #2: Reused Sections and Incomplete Analysis
• Section 4.15 of the report, addressing Electric and Magnetic Fields, was added only after residents raised concerns.
• This section is copied from an older report on a different project, indicating a lack of due diligence and ignorance of this project's specifics.
• The EMF map shared during the in-person meeting had flaws, raising questions about the study's validity.
• We request a detailed analysis of the report and the EMF map.

Reference #3: Corona and Induced Current Effect
• The proximity of the railway line to the proposed high transmission lines is concerning. • The report does not adequately address the hazards posed by high voltage lines and the potential for Corona effect to transfer current to railway lines.
• This negligence poses a high risk to residents, especially considering the railway line's proximity.

Reference #4: Selection of Option A Based on Cost
• Option A was selected solely based on cost, without considering human health, children, property values, and long-term sustainability.
• CEQA's findings are important, but understanding the negative impact of EMF on young children is critical.
• Real estate values near power lines decrease, affecting over 1000 residences and businesses. This loss of equity is unacceptable.

Reference #5: Misleading Picture in the Report
• Figure 5.1-2 in the report includes a misleading picture of a wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.
• The picture was taken from the other side of the railway line, which is further away from the proposed lines.

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2 • The Mission Garden Townhome community has no such wall, and the main entry to residences directly faces the street.
• This inaccuracy instills distrust and reflects the incompetency of the agencies preparing the report.

Conclusion and Demands
• The project's initial study must expand beyond CEQA to address our concerns. • The limited scope of CEQA has failed to address health hazards, reduced property values, aesthetic appeal, noise levels, fire hazards, and economic effects. • We demand further investigation and revisit other routes or proposals to resolve the city's power needs.
• The health of our residents, especially our children, must not be compromised in the name of development and infrastructure.

We respectfully request that the Santa Clara Mayor and Council take immediate action to address these concerns and ensure the well-being of our community.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Sincerely,
Praveen Vutukuru & Vijaya Chaganti
--
Praveen | Software Engineer | Google | 650-265-8190
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1 Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line
From: sudhir kulkarni <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, August 29, 2024 5:51 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
Cc: UJ Kools
Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project
To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

The EMP map shared during the in person meeting had several flaws and we would like to question the viability of the study that was completed. What time of the day was the study completed and on what models were the values based on since these were done on assumption for the EMF values that would H-84
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2 be there once the project is complete. Since we have seen the several sections of the report redundantly copied over from other reports, we would like a more detailed analysis of this report.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet.

Page 174 ends

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3 Reference #4: Post meeting material from March 19th 2024 @https://santaclara.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6582415&GUID=E6E14646-3CF7-4D15- BB98-F18580696012&Options=&Search=
Personal observation#4: At surface level, it looks like Option #A was selected only based on Cost perspective, without any consideration to human health, young children, property values, Corona effect, long term sustainability perspective or any other factors. While its important to understand the results of CEQA study, its extremely critical to understand the negative impact of EMF on the many young children living around the proposed transmission lines. Without extensive research and study on the impact to young children and adult heath, we should not be approving such an incomplete proposal.

Page 6 ends

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

The Mission Garden Townhome community has no walls as such and the main entry to residences face the road directly and are the most impacted. There are several other single family homes on Lafayette street with the same impact, having an entryway directly on the street. This and including other citations H-87
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5 of reusing sections of older reports, is all in all absolutely unacceptable and instills distrust. This further shows incompetency of the agency/ agencies preparing this report.

Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

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6 4. https://orchard.com/blog/posts/power-lines-and-property-value Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity.

Thank you,
Sudhir Kulkarni
1961 Silva Pl,
Santa Clara CA 95054
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1 Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line
From: Rajesh Upalekar <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, August 29, 2024 6:02 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project
To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

The EMP map shared during the in person meeting had several flaws and we would like to question the viability of the study that was completed. What time of the day was the study completed and on what models were the values based on since these were done on assumption for the EMF values that would H-90
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
2 be there once the project is complete. Since we have seen the several sections of the report redundantly copied over from other reports, we would like a more detailed analysis of this report.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet.

Page 174 ends

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3 Reference #4: Post meeting material from March 19th 2024 @https://santaclara.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6582415&GUID=E6E14646-3CF7-4D15- BB98-F18580696012&Options=&Search=
Personal observation#4: At surface level, it looks like Option #A was selected only based on Cost perspective, without any consideration to human health, young children, property values, Corona effect, long term sustainability perspective or any other factors. While its important to understand the results of CEQA study, its extremely critical to understand the negative impact of EMF on the many young children living around the proposed transmission lines. Without extensive research and study on the impact to young children and adult heath, we should not be approving such an incomplete proposal.

Page 6 ends

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

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5 Conclusion: This project's initial study needs to expand beyond CEQA for approval from the public. The limited scope of CEQA has failed to address the following concerns we have:
• Health hazards due to EMF levels.- This is by far the gravest concern and CEQA is clearly not qualified to study that.
• Reduced property values- several references provided below. • Loss of Aesthetic appeal for potential real estate buyers/ new and current businesses. • Increase in audible noise levels during and post construction, which is already high in the area with presence of railway line and air traffic route.
• Increased fire hazard/ risk of other accidents.
• Induced current on railway lines with close proximity/ corona effect- CEQA report did not clearly address this for a 115KV line.
• Economic effect on the community from small to larger scale based on all of the above.

Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

4. https://orchard.com/blog/posts/power-lines-and-property-value Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity.

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1 Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line
From: Amit Chandak <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, August 30, 2024 2:36 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project
To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

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2 Regarding EMF concerns for human health, there are plenty of scientific studies that do indicate the grave concern on human health with EMF exposures and we cannot ignore this aspect. Here is a reference to an article and there are plenty of articles listed here under references:
https://psc.wi.gov/Documents/Brochures/EMF.pdf
There are not enough references listed in the draft report provided to us, and the explanation provided seems to be conveniently using studies that prove otherwise. This needs more investigation and references. The solution provided as raising the height of the poles and increasing the distance is nonexistent. It was confirmed during the in person meeting that the design will not be altered and the height was already designed as required according to the SVP team present there. It seems that the preparers of this report did not even read the report after copying pasting from the old report as evident in the list of proposed solutions is not applicable here.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet.

Page 174 ends

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3 Reference #4: Post meeting material from March 19th
2024 @https://santaclara.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6582415&GUID=E6E14646-3CF7- 4D15-BB98-F18580696012&Options=&Search=
Personal observation#4: At surface level, it looks like Option #A was selected only based on Cost perspective, without any consideration to human health, young children, property values, Corona effect, long term sustainability perspective or any other factors. While its important to understand the results of CEQA study, its extremely critical to understand the negative impact of EMF on the many young children living around the proposed transmission lines. Without extensive research and study on the impact to young children and adult heath, we should not be approving such an incomplete proposal.

Page 6 ends

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

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5 Conclusion: This project's initial study needs to expand beyond CEQA for approval from the public. The limited scope of CEQA has failed to address the following concerns we have:
• Health hazards due to EMF levels.- This is by far the gravest concern and CEQA is clearly not qualified to study that.
• Reduced property values- several references provided below. • Loss of Aesthetic appeal for potential real estate buyers/ new and current businesses. • Increase in audible noise levels during and post construction, which is already high in the area with presence of railway line and air traffic route.
• Increased fire hazard/ risk of other accidents.
• Induced current on railway lines with close proximity/ corona effect- CEQA report did not clearly address this for a 115KV line.
• Economic effect on the community from small to larger scale based on all of the above.

Thanks & Regards,
Kanupriya
Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

4. https://orchard.com/blog/posts/power-lines-and-property-value Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity.

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1 Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line
From: Neelam <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, August 30, 2024 3:35 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project
To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

The EMP map shared during the in person meeting had several flaws and we would like to question the viability of the study that was completed. What time of the day was the study completed and on what models were the values based on since these were done on assumption for the EMF values that would H-100
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
2 be there once the project is complete. Since we have seen the several sections of the report redundantly copied over from other reports, we would like a more detailed analysis of this report.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet. These are available on Page 2 & Page 3 of this report: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/departments-andagencies/dph/dph/environmental_health/eoha/pdf/emffactsheet2008pdf.pdf This report has citations from WHO , National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and California Department of Health Services.
https://www.niehs.nih.gov/sites/default/files/health/materials/electric_and_magnetic_fields_associ ated_with_the_use_of_electric_power_questions_and_answers_english_508.pdf Some other questions around the EMF study map shared during presentation on Aug 22 2024:

1. Have you conducted an existing EMF study to identify the current value of the community ?

2. Are your emf study values based on the cumulative, or interference of existing emf and potential emf.

3. Emf value was calculated based on existing studies. What was the delta between mathematical modeling and actual values ( from existing structures).

4. What is the delta between underground and overhead structures’ emf values?

5. Can you provide the same for Route options B and C?

6. What happens when electrification of rail lines happens- as this is already planned for the future? Have you potentially considered the cumulative EMF effect in coexistence of the high power lines and with railway lines’ electrification? Will the EMF values not be much higher then? H-101
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3 7. Can you share the mathematical modeling maps of Emf for 115k, 230k and the next two higher values of the power line ?

8. Can you share Emf maps from existing structures of 115k, 230 k and the next 2 higher values of the power line?

9. Please share any emf related information that you have especially if it contains assumptions for any calculations so we can understand the effects of current project and future projects.

10. Why does the electric pole structure proposed have wider diameter at the top? Can you share the design of the top of the pole ? Can it be extended by adding another section by bolting, welding or any other method? If so, what extra voltage can be added to the line?

11. what is the proposed power consumption of 95054 zip code for the next 5, 10 and 15 years in the master plan ?
Reference #3

Page 174 ends

Reference #4: Post meeting material from March 19th 2024 @https://santaclara.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6582415&GUID=E6E14646-3CF7-4D15- BB98-F18580696012&Options=&Search=
Personal observation#4: At surface level, it looks like Option #A was selected only based on Cost perspective, without any consideration to human health, young children, property values, Corona effect, long term sustainability perspective or any other factors. While its important to understand the results of CEQA study, its extremely critical to understand the negative impact of EMF on the many young children living around the proposed transmission lines. Without extensive research and study on the impact to young children and adult heath, we should not be approving such an incomplete proposal.

Page 6 ends

discussions with several real estate agents in the region, I have unanimously found all to agree that the real estate values of residences in close proximity to power lines goes down. Its hard to find potential buyers and most folks refrain from buying a house too close to high power transmission lines. There are 1000 plus residences in the area affected by this project. Even if we were to make very rough assumptions, and assume minimal cost reduction in property values and take an average loss of $100,000 per property in the current year, that goes to $100,000,000 of loss of equity to the public. This is not even accounting the businesses affected by this project. This long explanation was to raise a point that if the selection of route A was saving money to the city, this is costing a huge financial loss to the H-102
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4 public, which is not acceptable. This decrease in property values will also directly impact the tax collection by the Santa Clara Assessor and result in lower tax revenue coming into the city of Santa Clara.

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

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6 Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

4. https://orchard.com/blog/posts/power-lines-and-property-value Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity.

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1 Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line
From: Aman S <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, August 30, 2024 2:19 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project
Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project
To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

H-106
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2 The EMP map shared during the in person meeting had several flaws and we would like to question the viability of the study that was completed. What time of the day was the study completed and on what models were the values based on since these were done on assumption for the EMF values that would be there once the project is complete. Since we have seen the several sections of the report redundantly copied over from other reports, we would like a more detailed analysis of this report.

1. Have you conducted an existing EMF study to identify the current value of the community ?

2. Are your emf study values based on the cumulative, or interference of existing emf and potential emf.

3. Emf value was calculated based on existing studies. What was the delta between mathematical modeling and actual values ( from existing structures).

4. What is the delta between underground and overhead structures’ emf values?

5. Can you provide the same for Route options B and C?
H-107
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3 6. What happens when electrification of rail lines happens- as this is already planned for the future? Have you potentially considered the cumulative EMF effect in coexistence of the high power lines and with railway lines’ electrification? Will the EMF values not be much higher then?

7. Can you share the mathematical modeling maps of Emf for 115k, 230k and the next two higher values of the power line ?

8. Can you share Emf maps from existing structures of 115k, 230 k and the next 2 higher values of the power line?

9. Please share any emf related information that you have especially if it contains assumptions for any calculations so we can understand the effects of current project and future projects.

11. what is the proposed power consumption of 95054 zip code for the next 5, 10 and 15 years in the master plan ?
Reference #3

Page 174 ends

Page 6 ends

discussions with several real estate agents in the region, I have unanimously found all to agree that the real estate values of residences in close proximity to power lines goes down. Its hard to find potential buyers and most folks refrain from buying a house too close to high power transmission lines. There are 1000 plus residences in the area affected by this project. Even if we were to make very rough assumptions, and assume minimal cost reduction in property values and take an average loss of H-108
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4 $100,000 per property in the current year, that goes to $100,000,000 of loss of equity to the public. This is not even accounting the businesses affected by this project. This long explanation was to raise a point that if the selection of route A was saving money to the city, this is costing a huge financial loss to the public, which is not acceptable. This decrease in property values will also directly impact the tax collection by the Santa Clara Assessor and result in lower tax revenue coming into the city of Santa Clara.

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

H-109
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5 The Mission Garden Townhome community has no walls as such and the main entry to residences face the road directly and are the most impacted. There are several other single family homes on Lafayette street with the same impact, having an entryway directly on the street. This and including other citations of reusing sections of older reports, is all in all absolutely unacceptable and instills distrust. This further shows incompetency of the agency/ agencies preparing this report.

Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

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6 2. https://www.epa.gov/radtown/electric-and-magnetic-fields-power-lines This resource suggests taking precautions and keeping distance or limiting exposure. Residents would no longer have either of these two options per the current proposals if they are living there 24-7.

4. https://orchard.com/blog/posts/power-lines-and-property-value Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity.

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1 Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line
From: Aruna Pothukuchi <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, August 31, 2024 12:01 AM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project
To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

The EMP map shared during the in person meeting had several flaws and we would like to question the viability of the study that was completed. What time of the day was the study completed and on what models were the values based on since these were done on assumption for the EMF values that would H-112
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
2 be there once the project is complete. Since we have seen the several sections of the report redundantly copied over from other reports, we would like a more detailed analysis of this report.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet.

1. Have you conducted an existing EMF study to identify the current value of the community ?

2. Are your emf study values based on the cumulative, or interference of existing emf and potential emf.

3. Emf value was calculated based on existing studies. What was the delta between mathematical modeling and actual values ( from existing structures).

4. What is the delta between underground and overhead structures’ emf values?

5. Can you provide the same for Route options B and C?

6. What happens when electrification of rail lines happens- as this is already planned for the future? Have you potentially considered the cumulative EMF effect in coexistence of the high power lines and with railway lines’ electrification? Will the EMF values not be much higher then? H-113
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3 7. Can you share the mathematical modeling maps of Emf for 115k, 230k and the next two higher values of the power line ?

8. Can you share Emf maps from existing structures of 115k, 230 k and the next 2 higher values of the power line?

9. Please share any emf related information that you have especially if it contains assumptions for any calculations so we can understand the effects of current project and future projects.

11. what is the proposed power consumption of 95054 zip code for the next 5, 10 and 15 years in the master plan ?
Reference #3

Page 174 ends

Page 6 ends

discussions with several real estate agents in the region, I have unanimously found all to agree that the real estate values of residences in close proximity to power lines goes down. Its hard to find potential buyers and most folks refrain from buying a house too close to high power transmission lines. There are 1000 plus residences in the area affected by this project. Even if we were to make very rough assumptions, and assume minimal cost reduction in property values and take an average loss of $100,000 per property in the current year, that goes to $100,000,000 of loss of equity to the public. This is not even accounting the businesses affected by this project. This long explanation was to raise a point that if the selection of route A was saving money to the city, this is costing a huge financial loss to the H-114
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4 public, which is not acceptable. This decrease in property values will also directly impact the tax collection by the Santa Clara Assessor and result in lower tax revenue coming into the city of Santa Clara.

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

H-116
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6 Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

4. https://orchard.com/blog/posts/power-lines-and-property-value Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity.

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Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line
From: Fang Gong <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, August 3, 2024 9:10 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project
Subject: Objection to Proposed 115 kV Transmission Line Project Hello,
I'm a resident in the Hogan Dr neighborhood, which is impacted by this project. I am writing to express my objection to Silicon Valley Power's (SVP) proposed construction of a new 115 kilovolt (kV) transmission line within the northeastern area of the City of Santa Clara, connecting the Northern Receiving Station (NRS) and Kifer Receiving Station (KRS).

While I understand the need to facilitate energy redistribution and accommodate projected load growth, I have several significant concerns about the impact of this project on our community:

1. Aesthetic and Property Value Impact on Hogan Drive: The installation of overhead transmission lines with poles along Lafayette Street will significantly damage the street view of this neighborhood.

This visual intrusion is likely to negatively impact property values, as prospective homeowners and residents generally prefer neighborhoods free of such industrial infrastructure. The presence of these poles and lines could deter potential buyers and reduce the appeal of our community.

2. Traffic Disruptions on Lafayette Street: The construction phase will necessitate traffic control measures and potential lane closures on Lafayette Street. This will cause considerable inconvenience to residents for more than a year. Daily commutes, local business operations, and general mobility within the area will be severely affected. The prolonged construction period could also lead to increased traffic congestion and heightened safety risks for both drivers and pedestrians.

3. Environmental Concerns: The construction and maintenance of the transmission lines may have detrimental effects on the local environment. Additionally, the long-term visual pollution from overhead lines could detract from the natural beauty and character of our community.

4. Health and Safety Risks: There are ongoing concerns regarding the health and safety implications of living in close proximity to high-voltage transmission lines. While the scientific community continues to study the potential health effects, the perceived risks can cause significant anxiety among residents. Ensuring that our community feels safe and secure should be a top priority.

5. Alternative Solutions: I urge SVP to consider alternative solutions that could mitigate these concerns. For example, underground transmission lines, although potentially more costly initially, would preserve the visual aesthetics of our neighborhood, reduce environmental disruption, and avoid the health and safety concerns associated with overhead lines.

In light of these issues, I strongly urge SVP to reconsider the current proposal and explore less disruptive alternatives that will better serve both the technical needs and the well-being of our community. I am confident that with thoughtful planning and community engagement, we can arrive at a solution that balances progress with the preservation of our neighborhood's character and quality of life.

Thank you for your attention to these concerns. I hope to see a revised proposal that addresses these critical issues.

Sincerely,
Fang
H-118
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1 Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line
From: Sriharish Pisipati <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, August 30, 2024 11:59 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project
To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

The EMP map shared during the in person meeting had several flaws and we would like to question the viability of the study that was completed. What time of the day was the study completed and on what models were the values based on since these were done on assumption for the EMF values that would H-119
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2 be there once the project is complete. Since we have seen the several sections of the report redundantly copied over from other reports, we would like a more detailed analysis of this report.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet.

1. Have you conducted an existing EMF study to identify the current value of the community ?

2. Are your emf study values based on the cumulative, or interference of existing emf and potential emf.

3. Emf value was calculated based on existing studies. What was the delta between mathematical modeling and actual values ( from existing structures).

4. What is the delta between underground and overhead structures’ emf values?

5. Can you provide the same for Route options B and C?

6. What happens when electrification of rail lines happens- as this is already planned for the future? Have you potentially considered the cumulative EMF effect in coexistence of the high power lines and with railway lines’ electrification? Will the EMF values not be much higher then? H-120
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3 7. Can you share the mathematical modeling maps of Emf for 115k, 230k and the next two higher values of the power line ?

8. Can you share Emf maps from existing structures of 115k, 230 k and the next 2 higher values of the power line?

9. Please share any emf related information that you have especially if it contains assumptions for any calculations so we can understand the effects of current project and future projects.

11. what is the proposed power consumption of 95054 zip code for the next 5, 10 and 15 years in the master plan ?
Reference #3

Page 174 ends

Page 6 ends

discussions with several real estate agents in the region, I have unanimously found all to agree that the real estate values of residences in close proximity to power lines goes down. Its hard to find potential buyers and most folks refrain from buying a house too close to high power transmission lines. There are 1000 plus residences in the area affected by this project. Even if we were to make very rough assumptions, and assume minimal cost reduction in property values and take an average loss of $100,000 per property in the current year, that goes to $100,000,000 of loss of equity to the public. This is not even accounting the businesses affected by this project. This long explanation was to raise a point that if the selection of route A was saving money to the city, this is costing a huge financial loss to the H-121
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4 public, which is not acceptable. This decrease in property values will also directly impact the tax collection by the Santa Clara Assessor and result in lower tax revenue coming into the city of Santa Clara.

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

H-123
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6 Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

4. https://orchard.com/blog/posts/power-lines-and-property-value Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity.

H-124
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1 Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line
From: saurabh sharma <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, August 30, 2024 6:50 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project
To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

Regarding EMF concerns for human health, there are plenty of scientific studies that do indicate the grave concern on human health with EMF exposures and we cannot ignore this aspect. Here is a reference to an article and there are plenty of articles listed here under references:
https://psc.wi.gov/Documents/Brochures/EMF.pdf
H-125
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2 There are not enough references listed in the draft report provided to us, and the explanation provided seems to be conveniently using studies that prove otherwise. This needs more investigation and references. The solution provided as raising the height of the poles and increasing the distance is nonexistent. It was confirmed during the in person meeting that the design will not be altered and the height was already designed as required according to the SVP team present there. It seems that the preparers of this report did not even read the report after copying pasting from the old report as evident in the list of proposed solutions is not applicable here.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet.

1. Have you conducted an existing EMF study to identify the current value of the community ?

2. Are your emf study values based on the cumulative, or interference of existing emf and potential emf.

3. Emf value was calculated based on existing studies. What was the delta between mathematical modeling and actual values ( from existing structures).

4. What is the delta between underground and overhead structures’ emf values?

5. Can you provide the same for Route options B and C?

7. Can you share the mathematical modeling maps of Emf for 115k, 230k and the next two higher values of the power line ?

8. Can you share Emf maps from existing structures of 115k, 230 k and the next 2 higher values of the power line?

9. Please share any emf related information that you have especially if it contains assumptions for any calculations so we can understand the effects of current project and future projects.

11. what is the proposed power consumption of 95054 zip code for the next 5, 10 and 15 years in the master plan ?
Reference #3

Page 174 ends

Personal observation#3
The railway line's proximity to the proposed high transmission lines is very concerning. The centerline distance from proposed lines to railway line is aproximately 50 feet per google maps with some margin for error. As per the report there are no Corona rings proposed for the 115KV lines. There seems to be negligence in design in consideration of the hazards posed by these high voltage lines as Corona effect H-126
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3 can transfer current to railway lines. All the residents are at a high risk of accidental hazards given the proximity of the railway line, this project is adding on to the hazards. This section is only stating information about what Corona effect is, as may be required by law, which by the way is again a copy paste from an old report. The only concern discussed in more depth is the audible noise level. The concerns are presented to imply that this is not significant by stating that 115KV lines pose less than significant risk.

Reference #4: Post meeting material from March 19th
2024 @https://santaclara.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6582415&GUID=E6E14646-3CF7- 4D15-BB98-F18580696012&Options=&Search=
Personal observation#4: At surface level, it looks like Option #A was selected only based on Cost perspective, without any consideration to human health, young children, property values, Corona effect, long term sustainability perspective or any other factors. While its important to understand the results of CEQA study, its extremely critical to understand the negative impact of EMF on the many young children living around the proposed transmission lines. Without extensive research and study on the impact to young children and adult heath, we should not be approving such an incomplete proposal.

Page 6 ends

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

We demand further investigation and revisit other routes or proposals to resolve the power needs of the city. We have to ensure our and our kids’ health is not at stake in the name of development and H-128
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5 infrastructure and are not in agreement for this project to move forward. We cannot approve this to move forward as of now given the lack of study and absence of a satisfactory solution/ mitigation provided in favor/ assurance to public health.

Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

4. https://orchard.com/blog/posts/power-lines-and-property-value Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity.

Thanks,
Saurabh Sharma
H-129
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1 Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line
From: Saurabh Sharma <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, August 30, 2024 11:01 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project
To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

Regarding EMF concerns for human health, there are plenty of scientific studies that do indicate the grave concern on human health with EMF exposures and we cannot ignore this aspect. Here is a reference to an article and there are plenty of articles listed here under references:
https://psc.wi.gov/Documents/Brochures/EMF.pdf
H-130
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
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2 There are not enough references listed in the draft report provided to us, and the explanation provided seems to be conveniently using studies that prove otherwise. This needs more investigation and references. The solution provided as raising the height of the poles and increasing the distance is nonexistent. It was confirmed during the in person meeting that the design will not be altered and the height was already designed as required according to the SVP team present there. It seems that the preparers of this report did not even read the report after copying pasting from the old report as evident in the list of proposed solutions is not applicable here.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet.

1. Have you conducted an existing EMF study to identify the current value of the community ?

2. Are your emf study values based on the cumulative, or interference of existing emf and potential emf.

3. Emf value was calculated based on existing studies. What was the delta between mathematical modeling and actual values ( from existing structures).

4. What is the delta between underground and overhead structures’ emf values?

5. Can you provide the same for Route options B and C?

7. Can you share the mathematical modeling maps of Emf for 115k, 230k and the next two higher values of the power line ?

8. Can you share Emf maps from existing structures of 115k, 230 k and the next 2 higher values of the power line?

9. Please share any emf related information that you have especially if it contains assumptions for any calculations so we can understand the effects of current project and future projects.

11. what is the proposed power consumption of 95054 zip code for the next 5, 10 and 15 years in the master plan ?
Reference #3

Page 174 ends

Personal observation#3
The railway line's proximity to the proposed high transmission lines is very concerning. The centerline distance from proposed lines to railway line is aproximately 50 feet per google maps with some margin for error. As per the report there are no Corona rings proposed for the 115KV lines. There seems to be negligence in design in consideration of the hazards posed by these high voltage lines as Corona effect H-131
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
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3 can transfer current to railway lines. All the residents are at a high risk of accidental hazards given the proximity of the railway line, this project is adding on to the hazards. This section is only stating information about what Corona effect is, as may be required by law, which by the way is again a copy paste from an old report. The only concern discussed in more depth is the audible noise level. The concerns are presented to imply that this is not significant by stating that 115KV lines pose less than significant risk.

Reference #4: Post meeting material from March 19th
2024 @https://santaclara.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6582415&GUID=E6E14646-3CF7- 4D15-BB98-F18580696012&Options=&Search=
Personal observation#4: At surface level, it looks like Option #A was selected only based on Cost perspective, without any consideration to human health, young children, property values, Corona effect, long term sustainability perspective or any other factors. While its important to understand the results of CEQA study, its extremely critical to understand the negative impact of EMF on the many young children living around the proposed transmission lines. Without extensive research and study on the impact to young children and adult heath, we should not be approving such an incomplete proposal.

Page 6 ends

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

We demand further investigation and revisit other routes or proposals to resolve the power needs of the city. We have to ensure our and our kids’ health is not at stake in the name of development and H-133
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5 infrastructure and are not in agreement for this project to move forward. We cannot approve this to move forward as of now given the lack of study and absence of a satisfactory solution/ mitigation provided in favor/ assurance to public health.

Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

4. https://orchard.com/blog/posts/power-lines-and-property-value Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity.

H-134
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Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line
From: Prithvi Arun <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, August 30, 2024 10:01 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project
To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

Regarding EMF concerns for human health, there are plenty of scientific studies that do indicate the grave concern on human health with EMF exposures and we cannot ignore this aspect. Here is a reference to an article and there are plenty of articles listed here under references:
https://psc.wi.gov/Documents/Brochures/EMF.pdf
H-135
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There are not enough references listed in the draft report provided to us, and the explanation provided seems to be conveniently using studies that prove otherwise. This needs more investigation and references. The solution provided as raising the height of the poles and increasing the distance is nonexistent. It was confirmed during the in person meeting that the design will not be altered and the height was already designed as required according to the SVP team present there. It seems that the preparers of this report did not even read the report after copying pasting from the old report as evident in the list of proposed solutions is not applicable here.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet.

1. Have you conducted an existing EMF study to identify the current value of the community ?

2. Are your emf study values based on the cumulative, or interference of existing emf and potential emf.

3. Emf value was calculated based on existing studies. What was the delta between mathematical modeling and actual values ( from existing structures).

4. What is the delta between underground and overhead structures’ emf values?

5. Can you provide the same for Route options B and C?

7. Can you share the mathematical modeling maps of Emf for 115k, 230k and the next two higher values of the power line ?

8. Can you share Emf maps from existing structures of 115k, 230 k and the next 2 higher values of the power line?

9. Please share any emf related information that you have especially if it contains assumptions for any calculations so we can understand the effects of current project and future projects.

11. what is the proposed power consumption of 95054 zip code for the next 5, 10 and 15 years in the master plan ?
Reference #3

Page 174 ends

Personal observation#3
The railway line's proximity to the proposed high transmission lines is very concerning. The centerline distance from proposed lines to railway line is aproximately 50 feet per google maps with some margin for error. As per the report there are no Corona rings proposed for the 115KV lines. There seems to be negligence in design in consideration of the hazards posed by these high voltage lines as Corona effect H-136
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
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can transfer current to railway lines. All the residents are at a high risk of accidental hazards given the proximity of the railway line, this project is adding on to the hazards. This section is only stating information about what Corona effect is, as may be required by law, which by the way is again a copy paste from an old report. The only concern discussed in more depth is the audible noise level. The concerns are presented to imply that this is not significant by stating that 115KV lines pose less than significant risk.

Reference #4: Post meeting material from March 19th
2024 @https://santaclara.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6582415&GUID=E6E14646-3CF7- 4D15-BB98-F18580696012&Options=&Search=
Personal observation#4: At surface level, it looks like Option #A was selected only based on Cost perspective, without any consideration to human health, young children, property values, Corona effect, long term sustainability perspective or any other factors. While its important to understand the results of CEQA study, its extremely critical to understand the negative impact of EMF on the many young children living around the proposed transmission lines. Without extensive research and study on the impact to young children and adult heath, we should not be approving such an incomplete proposal.

Page 6 ends

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

The Mission Garden Townhome community has no walls as such and the main entry to residences face the road directly and are the most impacted. There are several other single family homes on Lafayette street with the same impact, having an entryway directly on the street. This and including other citations H-138
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of reusing sections of older reports, is all in all absolutely unacceptable and instills distrust. This further shows incompetency of the agency/ agencies preparing this report.

Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

4. https://orchard.com/blog/posts/power-lines-and-property-value Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity. --
Prithvi Arun
H-139
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Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line
From: Vishnu H <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, August 30, 2024 9:41 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project
To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

H-140
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https://psc.wi.gov/Documents/Brochures/EMF.pdf
There are not enough references listed in the draft report provided to us, and the explanation provided seems to be conveniently using studies that prove otherwise. This needs more investigation and references. The solution provided as raising the height of the poles and increasing the distance is nonexistent. It was confirmed during the in person meeting that the design will not be altered and the height was already designed as required according to the SVP team present there. It seems that the preparers of this report did not even read the report after copying pasting from the old report as evident in the list of proposed solutions is not applicable here.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet.

1. Have you conducted an existing EMF study to identify the current value of the community ?

2. Are your emf study values based on the cumulative, or interference of existing emf and potential emf.

3. Emf value was calculated based on existing studies. What was the delta between mathematical modeling and actual values ( from existing structures).

4. What is the delta between underground and overhead structures’ emf values?

5. Can you provide the same for Route options B and C?

7. Can you share the mathematical modeling maps of Emf for 115k, 230k and the next two higher values of the power line ?

8. Can you share Emf maps from existing structures of 115k, 230 k and the next 2 higher values of the power line?

9. Please share any emf related information that you have especially if it contains assumptions for any calculations so we can understand the effects of current project and future projects.

11. what is the proposed power consumption of 95054 zip code for the next 5, 10 and 15 years in the master plan ?
Reference #3

Page 174 ends

Personal observation#3
The railway line's proximity to the proposed high transmission lines is very concerning. The centerline distance from proposed lines to railway line is aproximately 50 feet per google maps with some margin for error. As per the report there are no Corona rings proposed for the 115KV lines. There seems to be H-141
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
negligence in design in consideration of the hazards posed by these high voltage lines as Corona effect can transfer current to railway lines. All the residents are at a high risk of accidental hazards given the proximity of the railway line, this project is adding on to the hazards. This section is only stating information about what Corona effect is, as may be required by law, which by the way is again a copy paste from an old report. The only concern discussed in more depth is the audible noise level. The concerns are presented to imply that this is not significant by stating that 115KV lines pose less than significant risk.

Reference #4: Post meeting material from March 19th
2024 @https://santaclara.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6582415&GUID=E6E14646-3CF7- 4D15-BB98-F18580696012&Options=&Search=
Personal observation#4: At surface level, it looks like Option #A was selected only based on Cost perspective, without any consideration to human health, young children, property values, Corona effect, long term sustainability perspective or any other factors. While its important to understand the results of CEQA study, its extremely critical to understand the negative impact of EMF on the many young children living around the proposed transmission lines. Without extensive research and study on the impact to young children and adult heath, we should not be approving such an incomplete proposal.

Page 6 ends

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

Personal observation#5: The picture is taken conveniently from the other side of the railway line which is actually Kingsbury street, inside a private community and not Lafayette street. This is further away from the proposed SVP lines. This is very misleading; see snapshots taken from Google maps below <A street with cars parked on it Description automatically generated.png> <An aerial view of a neighborhood Description automatically generated.png> And this is what is included on the report:
<A red car parked on a street Description automatically generated.png> The Mission Garden Townhome community has no walls as such and the main entry to residences face the road directly and are the most impacted. There are several other single family homes on Lafayette street with the same impact, having an entryway directly on the street. This and including other citations of reusing sections of older reports, is all in all absolutely unacceptable and instills distrust. This further shows incompetency of the agency/ agencies preparing this report.

H-142
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• Economic effect on the community from small to larger scale based on all of the above.

Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

4. https://orchard.com/blog/posts/power-lines-and-property-value Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity.

Kind Regards, Vishnu
H-143
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Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line
From: Sathiya Narayanan <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, August 30, 2024 9:39 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; PlanningCommission; [email protected]; Allie Jackman Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project
Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project
To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

H-144
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
Regarding EMF concerns for human health, there are plenty of scientific studies that do indicate the grave concern on human health with EMF exposures and we cannot ignore this aspect. Here is a reference to an article and there are plenty of articles listed here under references:
https://psc.wi.gov/Documents/Brochures/EMF.pdf
There are not enough references listed in the draft report provided to us, and the explanation provided seems to be conveniently using studies that prove otherwise. This needs more investigation and references. The solution provided as raising the height of the poles and increasing the distance is nonexistent. It was confirmed during the in person meeting that the design will not be altered and the height was already designed as required according to the SVP team present there. It seems that the preparers of this report did not even read the report after copying pasting from the old report as evident in the list of proposed solutions is not applicable here.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet.

1. Have you conducted an existing EMF study to identify the current value of the community ?

2. Are your emf study values based on the cumulative, or interference of existing emf and potential emf.

3. Emf value was calculated based on existing studies. What was the delta between mathematical modeling and actual values ( from existing structures).

4. What is the delta between underground and overhead structures’ emf values?

5. Can you provide the same for Route options B and C?

7. Can you share the mathematical modeling maps of Emf for 115k, 230k and the next two higher values of the power line ?

8. Can you share Emf maps from existing structures of 115k, 230 k and the next 2 higher values of the power line?

9. Please share any emf related information that you have especially if it contains assumptions for any calculations so we can understand the effects of current project and future projects.

11. what is the proposed power consumption of 95054 zip code for the next 5, 10 and 15 years in the master plan ?
Reference #3

Page 174 ends

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Personal observation#3
The railway line's proximity to the proposed high transmission lines is very concerning. The centerline distance from proposed lines to railway line is aproximately 50 feet per google maps with some margin for error. As per the report there are no Corona rings proposed for the 115KV lines. There seems to be negligence in design in consideration of the hazards posed by these high voltage lines as Corona effect can transfer current to railway lines. All the residents are at a high risk of accidental hazards given the proximity of the railway line, this project is adding on to the hazards. This section is only stating information about what Corona effect is, as may be required by law, which by the way is again a copy paste from an old report. The only concern discussed in more depth is the audible noise level. The concerns are presented to imply that this is not significant by stating that 115KV lines pose less than significant risk.

Page 6 ends

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

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The Mission Garden Townhome community has no walls as such and the main entry to residences face the road directly and are the most impacted. There are several other single family homes on Lafayette street with the same impact, having an entryway directly on the street. This and including other citations of reusing sections of older reports, is all in all absolutely unacceptable and instills distrust. This further shows incompetency of the agency/ agencies preparing this report.

Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:

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1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

4. https://orchard.com/blog/posts/power-lines-and-property-value Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity.

Always in Bhagavan
Sathiya
--
சும்மா இரு. Be Still.

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Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line
From: Unnikrishnan Udinoor <[email protected]> Sent: Friday, August 30, 2024 7:42 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project
To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

The EMP map shared during the in person meeting had several flaws and we would like to question the viability of the study that was completed. What time of the day was the study completed and on what models were the values based on since these were done on assumption for the EMF values that would H-150
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be there once the project is complete. Since we have seen the several sections of the report redundantly copied over from other reports, we would like a more detailed analysis of this report.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet.

1. Have you conducted an existing EMF study to identify the current value of the community ?

2. Are your emf study values based on the cumulative, or interference of existing emf and potential emf.

3. Emf value was calculated based on existing studies. What was the delta between mathematical modeling and actual values ( from existing structures).

4. What is the delta between underground and overhead structures’ emf values?

5. Can you provide the same for Route options B and C?

6. What happens when electrification of rail lines happens- as this is already planned for the future? Have you potentially considered the cumulative EMF effect in coexistence of the high power lines and with railway lines’ electrification? Will the EMF values not be much higher then? H-151
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7. Can you share the mathematical modeling maps of Emf for 115k, 230k and the next two higher values of the power line ?

8. Can you share Emf maps from existing structures of 115k, 230 k and the next 2 higher values of the power line?

9. Please share any emf related information that you have especially if it contains assumptions for any calculations so we can understand the effects of current project and future projects.

11. what is the proposed power consumption of 95054 zip code for the next 5, 10 and 15 years in the master plan ?
Reference #3

Page 174 ends

Reference #4: Post meeting material from March 19th
2024 @https://santaclara.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6582415&GUID=E6E14646-3CF7- 4D15-BB98-F18580696012&Options=&Search=
Personal observation#4: At surface level, it looks like Option #A was selected only based on Cost perspective, without any consideration to human health, young children, property values, Corona effect, long term sustainability perspective or any other factors. While its important to understand the results of CEQA study, its extremely critical to understand the negative impact of EMF on the many young children living around the proposed transmission lines. Without extensive research and study on the impact to young children and adult heath, we should not be approving such an incomplete proposal.

Page 6 ends

discussions with several real estate agents in the region, I have unanimously found all to agree that the real estate values of residences in close proximity to power lines goes down. Its hard to find potential buyers and most folks refrain from buying a house too close to high power transmission lines. There are 1000 plus residences in the area affected by this project. Even if we were to make very rough assumptions, and assume minimal cost reduction in property values and take an average loss of $100,000 per property in the current year, that goes to $100,000,000 of loss of equity to the public. This is not even accounting the businesses affected by this project. This long explanation was to raise a point that if the selection of route A was saving money to the city, this is costing a huge financial loss to the H-152
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public, which is not acceptable. This decrease in property values will also directly impact the tax collection by the Santa Clara Assessor and result in lower tax revenue coming into the city of Santa Clara.

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

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Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

4. https://orchard.com/blog/posts/power-lines-and-property-value Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity.

Unnikrishnan Udinoor
4479 Moulin Pl, Santa Clara - 95054
408 368 2674
Mission Gardens
--
Regards
Unni
H-155
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Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line
From: Sweety h <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, August 30, 2024 6:31 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]
Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project
To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

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https://psc.wi.gov/Documents/Brochures/EMF.pdf
There are not enough references listed in the draft report provided to us, and the explanation provided seems to be conveniently using studies that prove otherwise. This needs more investigation and references. The solution provided as raising the height of the poles and increasing the distance is nonexistent. It was confirmed during the in person meeting that the design will not be altered and the height was already designed as required according to the SVP team present there. It seems that the preparers of this report did not even read the report after copying pasting from the old report as evident in the list of proposed solutions is not applicable here.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet.

1. Have you conducted an existing EMF study to identify the current value of the community ?

2. Are your emf study values based on the cumulative, or interference of existing emf and potential emf.

3. Emf value was calculated based on existing studies. What was the delta between mathematical modeling and actual values ( from existing structures).

4. What is the delta between underground and overhead structures’ emf values?

5. Can you provide the same for Route options B and C?

7. Can you share the mathematical modeling maps of Emf for 115k, 230k and the next two higher values of the power line ?

8. Can you share Emf maps from existing structures of 115k, 230 k and the next 2 higher values of the power line?

9. Please share any emf related information that you have especially if it contains assumptions for any calculations so we can understand the effects of current project and future projects.

11. what is the proposed power consumption of 95054 zip code for the next 5, 10 and 15 years in the master plan ?
Reference #3

Page 174 ends

Personal observation#3
The railway line's proximity to the proposed high transmission lines is very concerning. The centerline distance from proposed lines to railway line is aproximately 50 feet per google maps with some margin for error. As per the report there are no Corona rings proposed for the 115KV lines. There seems to be H-157
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negligence in design in consideration of the hazards posed by these high voltage lines as Corona effect can transfer current to railway lines. All the residents are at a high risk of accidental hazards given the proximity of the railway line, this project is adding on to the hazards. This section is only stating information about what Corona effect is, as may be required by law, which by the way is again a copy paste from an old report. The only concern discussed in more depth is the audible noise level. The concerns are presented to imply that this is not significant by stating that 115KV lines pose less than significant risk.

Reference #4: Post meeting material from March 19th
2024 @https://santaclara.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6582415&GUID=E6E14646-3CF7- 4D15-BB98-F18580696012&Options=&Search=
Personal observation#4: At surface level, it looks like Option #A was selected only based on Cost perspective, without any consideration to human health, young children, property values, Corona effect, long term sustainability perspective or any other factors. While its important to understand the results of CEQA study, its extremely critical to understand the negative impact of EMF on the many young children living around the proposed transmission lines. Without extensive research and study on the impact to young children and adult heath, we should not be approving such an incomplete proposal.

Page 6 ends

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

We demand further investigation and revisit other routes or proposals to resolve the power needs of the city. We have to ensure our and our kids’ health is not at stake in the name of development and H-159
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infrastructure and are not in agreement for this project to move forward. We cannot approve this to move forward as of now given the lack of study and absence of a satisfactory solution/ mitigation provided in favor/ assurance to public health.

Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

4. https://orchard.com/blog/posts/power-lines-and-property-value Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity.

H-160
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Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line
From: Simple Yadav <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, August 30, 2024 4:40 PM
To: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]
Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project
To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

H-161
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https://psc.wi.gov/Documents/Brochures/EMF.pdf
There are not enough references listed in the draft report provided to us, and the explanation provided seems to be conveniently using studies that prove otherwise. This needs more investigation and references. The solution provided as raising the height of the poles and increasing the distance is nonexistent. It was confirmed during the in person meeting that the design will not be altered and the height was already designed as required according to the SVP team present there. It seems that the preparers of this report did not even read the report after copying pasting from the old report as evident in the list of proposed solutions is not applicable here.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet.

1. Have you conducted an existing EMF study to identify the current value of the community ?

2. Are your emf study values based on the cumulative, or interference of existing emf and potential emf.

3. Emf value was calculated based on existing studies. What was the delta between mathematical modeling and actual values ( from existing structures).

4. What is the delta between underground and overhead structures’ emf values?

5. Can you provide the same for Route options B and C?

7. Can you share the mathematical modeling maps of Emf for 115k, 230k and the next two higher values of the power line ?

8. Can you share Emf maps from existing structures of 115k, 230 k and the next 2 higher values of the power line?

9. Please share any emf related information that you have especially if it contains assumptions for any calculations so we can understand the effects of current project and future projects.

11. what is the proposed power consumption of 95054 zip code for the next 5, 10 and 15 years in the master plan ?
Reference #3

Page 174 ends

Personal observation#3
The railway line's proximity to the proposed high transmission lines is very concerning. The centerline distance from proposed lines to railway line is aproximately 50 feet per google maps with some margin for error. As per the report there are no Corona rings proposed for the 115KV lines. There seems to be H-162
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
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negligence in design in consideration of the hazards posed by these high voltage lines as Corona effect can transfer current to railway lines. All the residents are at a high risk of accidental hazards given the proximity of the railway line, this project is adding on to the hazards. This section is only stating information about what Corona effect is, as may be required by law, which by the way is again a copy paste from an old report. The only concern discussed in more depth is the audible noise level. The concerns are presented to imply that this is not significant by stating that 115KV lines pose less than significant risk.

Reference #4: Post meeting material from March 19th
2024 @https://santaclara.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6582415&GUID=E6E14646-3CF7- 4D15-BB98-F18580696012&Options=&Search=
Personal observation#4: At surface level, it looks like Option #A was selected only based on Cost perspective, without any consideration to human health, young children, property values, Corona effect, long term sustainability perspective or any other factors. While its important to understand the results of CEQA study, its extremely critical to understand the negative impact of EMF on the many young children living around the proposed transmission lines. Without extensive research and study on the impact to young children and adult heath, we should not be approving such an incomplete proposal.

Page 6 ends

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

We demand further investigation and revisit other routes or proposals to resolve the power needs of the city. We have to ensure our and our kids’ health is not at stake in the name of development and infrastructure and are not in agreement for this project to move forward. We cannot approve this to H-164
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move forward as of now given the lack of study and absence of a satisfactory solution/ mitigation provided in favor/ assurance to public health.

Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

4. https://orchard.com/blog/posts/power-lines-and-property-value Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity.

Thanks,
Simple yadav
H-165
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Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line
From: Niaz Khan <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, August 30, 2024 4:12 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project
To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

H-166
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Regarding EMF concerns for human health, there are plenty of scientific studies that do indicate the grave concern on human health with EMF exposures and we cannot ignore this aspect. Here is a reference to an article and there are plenty of articles listed here under references:
https://psc.wi.gov/Documents/Brochures/EMF.pdf
There are not enough references listed in the draft report provided to us, and the explanation provided seems to be conveniently using studies that prove otherwise. This needs more investigation and references. The solution provided as raising the height of the poles and increasing the distance is nonexistent. It was confirmed during the in person meeting that the design will not be altered and the height was already designed as required according to the SVP team present there. It seems that the preparers of this report did not even read the report after copying pasting from the old report as evident in the list of proposed solutions is not applicable here.

1. Have you conducted an existing EMF study to identify the current value of the community ?

2. Are your emf study values based on the cumulative, or interference of existing emf and potential emf.

3. Emf value was calculated based on existing studies. What was the delta between mathematical modeling and actual values ( from existing structures).

4. What is the delta between underground and overhead structures’ emf values?

5. Can you provide the same for Route options B and C?

7. Can you share the mathematical modeling maps of Emf for 115k, 230k and the next two higher values of the power line ?
H-167
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8. Can you share Emf maps from existing structures of 115k, 230 k and the next 2 higher values of the power line?

9. Please share any emf related information that you have especially if it contains assumptions for any calculations so we can understand the effects of current project and future projects.

11. what is the proposed power consumption of 95054 zip code for the next 5, 10 and 15 years in the master plan ?
Reference #3

Page 174 ends

Page 6 ends

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Conclusion: This project's initial study needs to expand beyond CEQA for approval from the public. The limited scope of CEQA has failed to address the following concerns we have:
• Health hazards due to EMF levels.- This is by far the gravest concern and CEQA is clearly not qualified to study that.
• Reduced property values- several references provided below. • Loss of Aesthetic appeal for potential real estate buyers/ new and current businesses. • Increase in audible noise levels during and post construction, which is already high in the area with presence of railway line and air traffic route.
• Increased fire hazard/ risk of other accidents.
• Induced current on railway lines with close proximity/ corona effect- CEQA report did not clearly address this for a 115KV line.
• Economic effect on the community from small to larger scale based on all of the above.

Thank you for your attention to this pressing matter, and eagerly await your response.

Sincerely
Niaz Khan
2134 Payne Place, Santa Clara, 95054
[email protected]
Payne Place Community
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Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line
From: kuldeep singh <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, August 30, 2024 3:57 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project
Subject: Fwd: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project Begin forwarded message:

From: kuldeep singh <[email protected]>
Date: August 30, 2024 at 3:49:14 PM PDT
To: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected]
Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project
To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

Personal observation#2 : This consideration was completely absent earlier. Only after the residents raised their voices, this section was added. To our greatest disappointment, this section is copied over from an older report on the “South Loop Reconfiguration Project” from 2020. One would have expected that a new study would have been conducted for a project this size. The lack of due diligence and H-170
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ignorance towards the specifics of this project are apparent and not acceptable. In fact we have found several sections of this older report as being reused across the entire report.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet.

1. Have you conducted an existing EMF study to identify the current value of the community ?

2. Are your emf study values based on the cumulative, or interference of existing emf and potential emf.

3. Emf value was calculated based on existing studies. What was the delta between mathematical modeling and actual values ( from existing structures).

4. What is the delta between underground and overhead structures’ emf values?

5. Can you provide the same for Route options B and C?

7. Can you share the mathematical modeling maps of Emf for 115k, 230k and the next two higher values of the power line ?

8. Can you share Emf maps from existing structures of 115k, 230 k and the next 2 higher values of the power line?

9. Please share any emf related information that you have especially if it contains assumptions for any calculations so we can understand the effects of current project and future projects.

H-171
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11. what is the proposed power consumption of 95054 zip code for the next 5, 10 and 15 years in the master plan ?
Reference #3

Page 174 ends

City Council and Authorities ConcurrentNovember 12, 2024

City Council and Authorities Concurrent
November 12, 2024