Temecula residents and state senator oppose SDG&E power line project

Hundreds of Temecula residents gathered at Wilson Creek Winery to oppose San Diego Gas & Electric's plan to build 500-kilovolt transmission lines and towers through south Temecula, CBS News Los Angeles reported.

The event, called 'Fight the Powerlink,' featured California State Senator Kelly Seyarto and members of the grassroots group Save Temecula, which is leading efforts to stop the project.

Save Temecula's president, Mark Winkler, emphasized the group's commitment to protecting the community's future and expanding their coalition to halt what they call an ill-conceived utility project.

Senator Seyarto and Assemblywoman Kate Sanchez have urged SDG&E to consider alternate routes to avoid impacting Temecula Valley, reflecting concerns raised by residents and local officials.

The proposed nearly 150-mile power line system would run from the Imperial Valley substation through Anza-Borrego State Park, Palomar Mountain, Temecula, and end near San Onofre in San Clemente.

Local leaders have expressed worries about increased wildfire risk, health effects, and damage to Temecula's rural character if the project proceeds as planned.