Hudson Demands Answers, Transparency on Proposed Chatham County Pipeline

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Richard Hudson (NC-09) is requesting answers from state and federal officials regarding Enbridge Gas North Carolina’s proposed Chatham County System Expansion Project on behalf of residents whose property and communities could be affected. Hudson sent letters to North Carolina Governor Josh Stein, North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ) Secretary Reid Wilson, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers seeking additional information about the proposal, the review and permitting process, and how local residents will be heard as the proposed project potentially moves forward.

“Chatham County is one of North Carolina’s fastest-growing counties, and I support actions taken to expand our state’s infrastructure amidst robust economic growth. However, any growth should ensure an appropriate amount of time for feedback, public discussion on the proposals, transparency into alternative proposals, rationale for selection of the proposals, and details of engagement with impacted constituencies. Successful growth should not come at the cost of potential community disruption for my constituents,” wrote Rep. Hudson.

Background

The proposed project would construct an approximately 28-mile, 12-inch natural gas pipeline running from the Siler City area toward Moncure, crossing the Haw River. The project remains in the design and survey phase, and a final route has not yet been determined.

Residents have raised concerns about potential impacts to private property, farms, waterways, and the rural character of their communities. They have also sought greater information about alternative routes under consideration and how public input will factor into the final route.

In his letters, Hudson asked:

• Governor Stein to provide details about the state’s engagement with the local community and efforts to address residents’ concerns. Read the full letter to Governor Stein here.
• NCDEQ to outline its jurisdiction over the proposal, any permits or certifications that may be required, the standards it will use to review the project, and how impacts to waterways and wetlands and concerns from affected landowners will be considered. Read the full letter to NCDEQ here.
• The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to explain its anticipated role in reviewing the proposal, any permits or approvals that may be necessary, how potential impacts to waterways and wetlands will be evaluated, and what opportunities local stakeholders will have to participate in the process. Read the full letter to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers here.

Hudson will continue working with Chatham County residents, local officials, state leaders, and federal agencies as the proposal moves forward.