d) Alligator Rock-South of I-10 Frontage Alternative

This 9.77-mile alternative route segment would follow the route proposed for the Desert Southwest transmission project (see Section IV.A.6 below). It would diverge from the proposed DPV2 route approximately 3.5 miles east of Desert Center and would follow the Alligator Rock-Blythe Energy route alternative to the point where that alternative turns southwest, just east of Alligator Rock. After passing between the northern end of Alligator Rock and I-10, this alternative route would continue in a westerly direction immediately south of I-10 before rejoining the proposed DPV2 route. For approximately two miles, it would be constructed within a new right of way inside the northeastern boundary of the ACEC.

This alternative would have significant impacts on air quality and cultural resources, as would the proposed project and other alternatives, although the affected cultural resources potentially could have less value than those in the center of the ACEC. This alternative would create different significant visual impacts and, while affecting a smaller area within the ACEC, would significantly diminish its recreational value.