USA, Utah, Emery County: Federal authorities have approved a new 15-kV distribution line to bring electricity to Goblin Valley State Park in Emery County, Utah, marking a significant infrastructure upgrade for the remote site.
The Bureau of Land Management granted permission on 29 May for the Utah Division of Facilities Construction and Management to build a power line route. The project includes the installation of wooden utility poles approximately 9 m (30 ft) high, spaced about 90 m (300 ft) apart. In addition, Emery Telcom will install fibre-optic cables alongside the power lines, improving telecommunications capacity and enabling high-speed internet for park operations.
Officials say the upgrade is needed as rising visitor numbers and campground expansion have exceeded the limits of existing generator-based power systems. Goblin Valley attracted over 480,000 visitors last year, making it one of the most visited parks in the Utah state system.
The environmental assessment concluded that the project would not have a significant impact on the surrounding landscape.
Park managers said the new electrical supply will support infrastructure improvements and enhance visitor services, although the installation timeline has not yet been confirmed.
The project is expected to improve both operational reliability and future development opportunities at the park.
Source: Desert News
