Decision Memo In Progress

Arizona Public Service (APS) Eastern Fiber Optic Project

Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests Maricopa; Navajo; Pinal, Arizona Tonto National Forest All Units

Construction of a fiber optic communication line within the existing authorized 345-kV dual tower parallel-line ROW that crosses approximately 91 miles of the Tonto NF and Apache-Sitgreaves NF

Location

From the APS Dale Substation north of the Phoenix metropolitan area to the future Chevelon Butte Substation, located approximately 28 miles south of Joseph City in Navajo County

Project timeline

1
Scoping Start
08/04/2025
2
Decision
11/2025 (Estimated)
3
Implementation
01/2026 (Estimated)

NEPA / regulatory detail

Categorical Exclusion32.12 (4), 36 Cfr 220.6(D)(4); Ntia_C(8)
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment RegulationNot Subject to Regulations
Project ActivitySpecial Use Authorizations
ForestsApache-Sitgreaves National Forests; Tonto National Forest
DistrictsBlack Mesa Ranger District; Cave Creek Ranger District; Mesa Ranger District; Payson Ranger District; Tonto Basin Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Special use management