Gas pipeline expansion plan fuels fury in Peekskill, Cortlandt
mrisinit@lohud.com, TJN
Plans for a bigger natural gas pipeline through parts of the Lower Hudson Valley have sparked worries about safety and property values among some living near the project's route.
Texas-based Spectra Energy is proposing to enlarge a pipeline that crosses Rockland, Westchester and Putnam counties on its way from the New Jersey border to the Massachusetts coast. The company wants to replace 26-inch-diameter pipe sections with 42-inch pipe, tunnel a new portion beneath the Hudson River and upgrade compressor stations in Stony Point and Southeast.
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission is reviewing the project, which has garnered some local support — but has also generated criticism from residents like Courtney Williams of Peekskill. She said she wants to make sure the expanded pipeline is safe and doesn't financially damage homeowners or municipalities. The existing pipeline that will be replaced is behind her street in Peekskill.
http://www.lohud.com/story/tech/science/environment/2014/07/12/bigger-natural-gas-pipeline-worries-neighbors/12543679/
