We call on Delmarva Power to remove the high voltage powerlines, towers, and poles that are currently running through the Villages of Ardentown and Ardencroft, and to relocate them to a safer and more suitable location.

Alternative routes, including one proposed by Ben Gruswitz, Chair of Ardencroft and a certified urban planner, need to be seriously considered (see http://bit.ly/transmission_lines). We are also open to exploring other alternative routes, which could better serve the health and safety of the community and the environment.

The 2026 Delmarva Plan, which is set to replace all the equipment in the Villages of Ardentown and Ardencroft for the first time in 100 years, presents a critical opportunity to address long-standing concerns and relocate these powerlines. Removing the outdated infrastructure will also enable the Villages to tackle the significant lead contamination in the soil, which has accumulated over the years from Delmarva’s aging equipment, with the support of DNREC. The lead contamination, confirmed by two independent labs (University of Delaware Soil Testing Laboratory and Brownfield Science & Technology Inc.), exceeds both the EPA’s residential Regional Screening Levels and the standards set by the Delaware Hazardous Substance Cleanup Act. These levels far surpass what is considered safe.

The original easement, signed in 1926 between Ardentown and the American Power Company (later Delmarva), was established when the area was still farm fields—long before residential homes were built near the existing towers. Given the growth of the surrounding communities and the advancements in technology and environmental stewardship, the need for an updated plan is clear. A 21st-century plan that not only ensures reliable power for the future but also prioritizes the health and well-being of the people and the environment for the next 100 years is essential.

This petition is not just for the residents of the Arden Villages, but also for the broader community impacted by the lead contamination and outdated powerlines, as well as for future generations who will inherit the consequences of today’s infrastructure decisions. It’s time for a modern, forward-thinking approach to lessen the environmental impact, meet our community’s health concerns, and preserve the natural beauty of our historic area. As our communities grow, we must ensure that energy solutions respect and enhance the local landscape, minimize harm to ecosystems, and protect the well-being of our residents for generations to come.

Together, we can create a transmission line relocation plan that balances future energy needs with a deep commitment to the environment and public health.