
Hampton-Rochester-La Crosse 345-kV Project involves about 125 miles of 345-kV transmission line and about 28 miles of 161 kV line. The double circuit capable transmission line will improve reliability for the twin cities, Rochester and La Crosse areas, as well as improve access to generation in the south east part of Minnesota. The Hampton-Rochester-La Crosse 345-kV Project runs between a new substation near Hampton, Minn, and continues on to cross the Mississippi River near Alma, Wis. A single circuit 345 kV line was built in Wisconsin to a new substation in the La Crosse area. A new 161-kV line runs between the North Rochester Substation and the existing North Hills Substation in northwest Rochester. The project was one of seven selected in the government Rapid Response Pilot Program. Hampton-Rochester-La Crosse 345-kV Project is part of CapX2020, which is a joint initiative of 11 transmission-owning utilities in Minnesota and the surrounding region to expand the electric transmission grid to ensure continued reliable and affordable service. The project was energized in September 2016.