Chamber Joins Regional Leaders in Opposing Proposed Powerline Route Through Temecula Valley
Protecting Public Safety, Economic Stability, and the Future of Temecula Valley
The Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has formally joined regional partners in opposing
the proposed Golden Pacific Powerlink infrastructure route through the Temecula Valley. This decision reflects a unified regional effort to protect the long-term safety, economic vitality, and quality of life of the community.
The Chamber stands alongside the City of Temecula, Visit Temecula Valley, and the Temecula Valley Winegrowers Association in expressing concern over the proposed high-voltage transmission route, which would pass through multiple jurisdictions, including the Temecula Valley region.
As an organization representing nearly 1,000 member businesses and more than 14,800 employees across the region, the Chamber recognizes its responsibility to advocate for policies and infrastructure decisions that support both economic stability and community well-being. Following careful review of updated project materials and discussions with regional stakeholders, the Chamber Board determined that the proposed route presents significant concerns for the region.
Why the Chamber Opposes the Proposed Route
- The Board identified several major issues associated with the proposed infrastructure alignment, including:
- Increased wildfire risk related to high-voltage transmission infrastructure located within high and very high Fire Hazard Severity Zones
- Potential long-term impacts to tourism, hospitality, agriculture, retail, and wine industries that serve as key economic drivers for the Temecula Valley
- Environmental and land use concerns involving sensitive wildlife corridors, habitat areas, and scenic landscapes that are central to the region’s identity
- Cultural and tribal resource considerations, including areas of significance to the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians
- Broader concerns regarding environmental review standards, public safety, and long-term infrastructure planning
- Disproportionate impacts on the community with no direct benefit to the Temecula Valley region
While the Chamber supports responsible infrastructure development to meet California’s growing energy needs, it
believes those efforts must be balanced with the protection of local communities, natural resources, and regional economies.
“The Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce represents the collective voice of our business community, and that responsibility includes ensuring long-term economic stability and public safety,” said Esther Phahla, 2026 Chair of the Board. “Following careful review, the Board determined that this infrastructure route presents unacceptable risks to the region’s businesses, residents, and natural environment.”
Brooke Nunn, President and CEO of the Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the importance of collaboration and thoughtful planning moving forward.
“We remain committed to constructive engagement on infrastructure solutions that support California’s energy future,” said Nunn. “However, those solutions must be developed in a manner that avoids placing undue risk on communities such as Temecula Valley. We value the collaboration of our members, public agencies, and regional partners throughout this process.”
Looking Ahead
The Chamber will continue working alongside public agencies, regional organizations, industry leaders, and community stakeholders to advocate for alternative routing solutions that avoid high fire-risk areas and environmentally sensitive corridors while still meeting statewide infrastructure needs.
As the project process advances, the Chamber remains committed to protecting the interests of the business community and supporting efforts that prioritize public safety, environmental stewardship, and the long-term success of the Temecula Valley.
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