State legislators representing Hillsborough and Montgomery have voiced their strong opposition to the proposed PennEast natural gas pipeline project that would extend from Luzerne County, Pa., through Hunterdon and Mercer counties.
The three are Sen. Kip Bateman and Assembly members Jack Ciattarelli and Donna Simon — all Republicans.
In a letter to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the legislators wrote, "To the very best of our knowledge, no pipeline has ever been developed in a more bucolic, previously preserved and historically significant and designated area."
"Running a pipeline through numerous parcels of preserved land in some of the most beautiful places in the state poses far too many environmental risks," said Mr. Bateman. "There’s certainly a need to plan for the future to make sure the state can meet its energy demands, but constructing a pipeline in a way that would lower property values, impact quality of life for residents and damage the state’s dwindling open spaces is not the way to go."
"The PennEast Pipeline will permanently scar an exceptionally pristine, rich agricultural heritage that truly defines and sustains residents of the area," said Mr. Ciattarelli. "Simply put, this untouched area is, in and of itself, a way of life for local residents, most of whom relocated there purposely to avoid development of any kind."
PennEast indicated the proposed pipeline would go through the federal approval process, with construction estimated to begin in late 2017.
"There are serious issues that must be considered," said Ms. Simon. "The proposal crosses streams and properties protected by the NJDEP Green Acres program, and affects properties purchased by land conservation and protection organizations. The proposal of a 100-mile, 30-inch wide pipeline is contrary to the wishes of the public, will negatively impact farmers and their livelihoods and compromise future crops."
