Orono_Route_Permit_Application - Docket # W002/TL-11-223

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It is not expected that additional permanent jobs will be created by the Project. The construction activities will provide a seasonal influx of additional dollars into the communities during the construction phase, and materials such as concrete may be purchased from local vendors. Once the Project is operational, its socioeconomic effects are generally positive because it will provide a more stable and reliable supply of electricity, encourage economic development, provide for future growth, and increase the local tax base resulting from the incremental increase in revenues from utility property taxes. Socioeconomic impacts resulting from the Project will be primarily positive with an influx of wages and expenditures made at local businesses during the Project, increased tax revenue from the value of the Project and increased opportunities for business development from improved reliability. Mitigative Measures The proposed Project will not adversely impact socioeconomic factors. Therefore, no mitigative measures are proposed. 6.2.8 Cultural Values Cultural values are the history and beliefs of the area that provide a framework for community unity. The region surrounding the Project primarily depends on agricultural practices (typically corn, soybeans, and grazing), with some manufacturing and tourism, as well as educational and residential uses. Local community ties relate to work, worship, celebration, and recreation. Based on the City of Orono's website, examples of area culture and industry include the Corn Days Festival and farmer's markets in Long Lake and Maple Plain. Construction of the proposed Project is not expected to conflict with the cultural values along the route. No impacts on cultural values are anticipated. Mitigative Measures The proposed Project avoids or minimizes land uses associated with cultural values and no impacts are anticipated. Therefore, no mitigative measures are proposed. 6.2.9 Recreation There is one formal recreational area located north of the Project. Baker Park Reserve, which is part of the Three Rivers Park District is located within the boundaries of the City of Orono and the City of Medina and encompasses 2,700 acres (see Appendix B-7). The south end of Baker Park Reserve lies north of and across the BNSF railroad, the Metropolitan Council sewer line and U.S. Highway 12 from the proposed transmission line route. The new substation should not be visible from Baker Park Reserve and from U.S. Highway 12 due to the distance between these areas and the substation site, plus the higher elevation of the BNSF railroad when compared to the substation site, U.S. Highway 12 and the park. Baker Park Reserve has many activities available for park users including; biking, boating, camping, canoeing, cross-country skiing, dog trails, fishing, geocaching, golfing, hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, picnic and play areas, sledding, snowshoeing and swimming. The park wholly contains Spurzem Lake, Half Moon Lake and Lake Katrina and borders the southwest portion of Orono Project June 7, 2011 MPUC Docket No. E002/TL-11-223 48