Judge Rules Grant County PUD Can Condemn Private Land

Grant County Superior Court Judge Jennifer Richardson ruled that the Grant County Public Utility District (PUD) possesses the legal right to condemn private property to facilitate the construction of electrical transmission lines. The decision follows a lawsuit filed by the utility to secure land for a $260 million expansion project intended to double the electricity supply to Quincy, Washington, a major hub for data centers.

Nine property owners challenged the action, claiming the PUD failed to adhere to state appraisal and negotiation procedures. Judge Richardson determined that these procedural issues do not invalidate the condemnation process, although she noted that final compensation for the landowners remains undecided and may be settled by a jury.

The project spans from Wanapum Dam to Quincy, crossing 34 homes and 112 parcels of land. Landowners have appealed the ruling, alleging that the utility's appraisals significantly undervalue their property. The PUD intends to begin construction in 2028, with power delivery expected by 2029.