ONEONTA, NY. – Saying it would negatively impact property values, public health and infrastructure, State Sen. James Seward [R – Oneonta] is calling on federal regulators to reject a proposed gas pipeline by energy company Kinder Morgan that would run through portions of his district.
The Tennessee Gas Pipeline, which would run through parts of Chenango, Delaware and Schoharie counties, would have long-term environmental and safety costs, Seward said.
In a letter addressed to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Seward questioned whether a second pipeline is needed through his district.
"'Pipeline Fatigue' might be an apt description of the outlook of my constituents," Seward wrote in the letter.
Seward referred to The Constitution Pipeline, which also runs through Delaware and Schoharie counties and has already received approval from federal regulators.
Seward has previously shown support for that pipeline, which he says “will supply much needed gas” to local interests.
“In this instance, however, there is no local benefit and no reason for me to support an additional pipeline,” Seward said.
The Constitution Pipeline is waiting on final approval of permit approvals from The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation to begin construction.
Here's Seward's full letter to the FERC:
