NorthWestern Energy is requesting two Easements at the Airport to provide electrical power feeds needed to supply power to components of a new Runway Weather Information System (RWIS) to be installed during the Runway 10L/28R Rehabilitation Project. The new RWIS will assist staff during Winter operations using weather and temperature monitoring equipment, and computer analysis to determine the proper surface temperature for applying deicing fluid to the runway surface in order to prevent ice buildup. The installation of the RWIS requires two power feeds, one on each end of the runway, to provide power to the system's two remote data processing units. The easement for the electrical feed on the east end will be approximately 1,100 feet long and the easement for the electrical feed on the west end will be approximately 600 feet long.  Since the new power feeds and associated easements will be on Airport property, two Right-of-Way Easements must be approved by the City Council and signed by the Mayor before the electrical feeds can be installed.

The City Council may:

• Approve the easements with NorthWestern Energy; or
• Decline to approve the easements, subsequently delaying the installation of the RWIS that is being coordinated for installation during the Runway 10L/28R Rehabilitation Project. 

These Easements will not result in any additional financial impact to the City of Billings.  The cost of the electrical install needed for the RWIS is included in the Runway Rehabilitation project.

Staff recommends the City Council approve the Right-of-Way Easements at the Airport with NorthWestern Energy for the installation of the two new power feeds required for the new RWIS.