Expresses to Federal Energy Regulatory Commission opposition to proposed Northeast Supply Enhancement Project; urges consideration of certain alternative projects.
Impact
AR24 highlights significant issues related to the aging natural gas pipeline system in the area, noting that much of it is approximately 50 years old, questioning its ability to handle the projected increased volume and velocity of gas. In this light, the assembly worries that the construction may exacerbate potential safety hazards, especially in a region known for active blasting operations in the Kingston Quarry nearby. These conditions raise alarms about the risk of gas explosions and underscore the urgent need for emergency response preparedness.
Summary
Assembly Resolution 24 (AR24) expresses the New Jersey General Assembly's opposition to the Northeast Supply Enhancement (NESE) Project, a proposed expansion of the Transco Pipeline. The resolution raises concerns regarding the public health and safety risks posed by the project, particularly the construction of a new natural gas compressor station in Franklin Township. The Assembly urges the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to consider alternative energy projects that could meet New York's growth needs without compromising the well-being of New Jersey residents or the environment.
Contention
The resolution outlines critical points of contention regarding the NESE Project, mainly the community's concern over insufficient emergency preparedness. There are allegations that residents have not been adequately informed about the effects on air quality due to routine operations like blowdowns, which can produce toxic emissions and disturbing noise levels. Furthermore, concerns over low water pressure affecting emergency water supply capabilities for fire services were raised, indicating a potential inadequacy in addressing local emergency readiness.
Environmental_concerns
Opposition to the NESE Project also stems from environmental considerations, as its construction threatens aquatic ecosystems in the Raritan Bay, which is expected to be disrupted by construction activities. There are apprehensions that the project may interfere with existing environmental protections and contaminate previously cleaned areas, including segments of the Raritan Bay Slag Superfund Site. The General Assembly emphasizes the importance of thoroughly understanding and mitigating these risks before proceeding with such energy infrastructure projects.
Expresses to Federal Energy Regulatory Commission opposition to proposed Northeast Supply Enhancement Project; urges consideration of certain alternative projects.
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