Alliant Energy Oak Hill Substation

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When Alliant Energy purchased property in Cedar Rapids’ Oak Hill neighborhood in 2002, the goal was to build a new substation to improve energy reliability in the area. However, because the site was located in a residential neighborhood, the project faced zoning hurdles and strong community opposition. The original conditional use plan expired, and the project was delayed for nearly a decade. Alliant needed a new approach that could address neighborhood concerns while still meeting critical infrastructure needs.

Shive-Hattery partnered with Alliant Energy to re-engage the project in 2012, beginning with new site concepts and community coordination. Our team led the design of a revised substation layout that included screening elements such as fencing and retaining walls to minimize visual impact. We supported Alliant through the city’s conditional use process and worked closely with neighbors to address concerns. The project was phased to allow for demolition, driveway construction, and final site development with minimal disruption.

The Oak Hill Substation became operational in 2018, replacing three older substations and significantly improving energy reliability for the surrounding neighborhood. Through thoughtful design and persistent collaboration, Shive-Hattery helped Alliant Energy navigate a complex approval process and deliver essential infrastructure in a sensitive location. The result is a functional, community-conscious solution that balances utility needs with neighborhood character.