Midcontinent Grid Solutions (MGS) said Tuesday it is lengthening the public‑engagement schedule for its proposed BECI transmission line in Madison and surrounding counties. The company will now hold open‑house sessions in the first quarter of 2027 rather than this fall, and it will not file its Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) with the Wisconsin Public Service Commission until no earlier than May 1, 2027.
Why the extension matters to local families
“We appreciate everyone who has participated in this process and shared feedback,” said Ryan Houk, president of MGS. “We’ve heard from landowners, local officials and community members who want more time to review project information, ask questions and provide input. We’re listening.” By moving the open houses to early next year, MGS hopes to give residents a genuine opportunity to weigh in on a project that will affect the regional electric grid for decades.
Project overview
The BECI project envisions a roughly 190‑mile, 765‑kilovolt transmission line that would run from Crawford County to the Wisconsin‑Illinois border. MGS argues the line is needed to strengthen the regional grid and maintain reliable service as electricity demand grows across the state. The company says the line will support future renewable‑energy integration while keeping power costs stable for households and businesses.
Public engagement continues
Public outreach for the project began in August of last year. MGS emphasized that community input remains a core part of the process even after the CPCN filing. The Wisconsin Public Service Commission’s review will also include formal opportunities for public comment, allowing Madison residents to continue influencing the final decision.
What residents can do
Anyone interested in learning more about the BECI transmission line or submitting comments can visit the project’s website (link provided in the original report). MGS encourages landowners, local officials, and ordinary citizens to attend the upcoming open houses, submit written feedback, or contact the company directly with questions.
Local impact and next steps
Extending the engagement timeline aligns with the community‑first approach that many Madison families value. It gives parents and homeowners additional time to understand how the line might affect property values, visual landscapes, and local wildlife. It also allows local officials to coordinate with state regulators and ensure that any environmental or safety concerns are addressed before the CPCN filing.
After the May 1 filing, the Public Service Commission will conduct its own review, which includes a formal comment period and a public hearing. The outcome will determine whether the line can move forward, subject to any conditions the commission imposes.
For ongoing updates, residents should monitor local news outlets and the Wisconsin Public Service Commission’s announcements.
Original reporting: NBC15 WMTV (Gray) – local — read the source article.
