GUILFORD COUNTY, N.C. — Concerns over community safety and environmental risks dominated discussions as Guilford County commissioners convened for a Thursday afternoon work session. It was here that approximately 30 individuals gathered to voice their opposition to the federal Southeast Supply Enhancement project, which would necessitate the installation of 42-inch wide natural gas pipelines extending over 24 miles through Guilford, Forsyth, and Davidson counties.
Local resident Brenda Chaney articulated her objections, emphasizing the issue transcends personal inconvenience and strikes at the heart of community well-being and water safety. “This isn’t just about compensation. No sum of money can address the fundamental risks involved,” Chaney explained. The proposed pipeline route would encroach upon her property, an area where she maintains horse pastures and which has previously experienced disruptions due to similar constructions.
Chaney voiced considerable apprehensions regarding the potential for serious incidents arising from the substantial pipeline addition. “Adding another pipeline to the existing bundle without enhancing the older infrastructure invites disaster,” she remarked. Her skepticism extends to the executing company’s practices, despite assurances of their expertise.
The session also heard from Caroline Hansley of the Sierra Club, who detailed the potential health and environmental consequences of the pipeline initiative. Hansley highlighted a significant public pushback, underscored by hundreds of signed petitions and letters to the commissioners calling for intervention.
The proposed route of the Transco Williams pipeline would effectively introduce over eight miles of new pipeline beneath Guilford County, from Oak Ridge to Kernersville. This extension would join an existing network of pipelines, escalating potential risks including explosions and gas leaks, as expressed by several speakers during the meeting.
One of Hansley’s primary concerns involves the direct impact on local water sources. “The path of the proposed pipeline jeopardizes the integrity of three key reservoirs supplying the Greensboro area, not to mention numerous private wells in Oak Ridge,” Hansley explained. She pointed out the dire consequences of any compromise to these water sources.
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) mandates an environmental assessment prior to project approval. Community feedback and additional safety measures proposed during these consultations are pivotal, as FERC is known for approving a high percentage of such projects. The ultimate green light from FERC could propel the project forward as early as next year, though potential roadblocks from other regulatory bodies, like the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality, might pose significant delays or denials based on environmental concerns.
In response to these pressing community concerns, Chaney appealed for local leadership to take a definitive stance. “A resolution from our commissioners rejecting the pipeline could catalyze further research and more thorough studies to ensure our safety,” Chaney urged.
Looking forward, commissioners noted the absence of representatives from Williams Company at the session, although an invitation had been extended. They anticipate a future presentation where the company will address public and commissioner queries regarding the project. The next public session of the Guilford County Commission is set for May 1, where these discussions are expected to continue.