Connecticut Light and Power (CL&P) have decided they need to run high power electrical lines through Suffield and East Granby. CL&P has stated they don't care if the lines go overhead or underground although
if they go underground it will be much more expensive and cost consumers more. Suffield has already recommended the lines go underground and East Granby will meet soon to make their decision.
Although there is much debate about the health hazards of high voltage overhead power lines there is no doubt they dramatically affect property values. No doubt, CL&P will work to convince the public they risks are minimal and going overhead will cost less, but residents of these towns should fight no waiver in making sure they go underground. As a Realtor in Suffield and East Granby, and having sold many homes here and across Connecticut, the most important factor in real estate prices is "perception". If potential buyers perceive the area to be nicer they will pay more. If potential buyers perceive power lines are a danger they will pay less. Reality has little to do with home values.
Bottom line - make sure those power lines go underground or it will cost you much more in your home's value than paying a little extra in your electric bill.


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