As business manager of the Operating Engineers Local 825, I represent the interests of nearly 7,000 highly trained heavy equipment operators. We have been building the energy infrastructure in this region for over 75 years and have the skills and expertise to safely and efficiently construct pipelines through areas that are both densely populated and environmentally sensitive.
I support the Northeast Supply Enhancement (NESE) application not only because of the well-paying jobs it will generate for my members and other building trades and professionals, but because of the economic, environmental and renewable resource benefits.
The NESE is greatly needed to ensure the availability of natural gas to New York City and Long Island as well as provide additional infrastructure in New York, Pennsylvania and New Jersey and help our region meet its clean air goals.
Our Local serves the entire State of New Jersey and five counties in New York. Our members and their families live and work in this region and rely upon access to affordable, clean energy. Their quality of life depends on investments like the NESE. Not only will this project expand access to more than 2.3 million homes and generate millions in economic activity, it will protect the environment by reducing carbon emissions, reliance on dirty fuel and will responsibly route and construct the pipeline to ensure that our natural resources are valued and preserved.
Greg Lalevee
Business Manager
Operating Engineers Local 825
Springfield