As pipeline disapproval continues to grow around the country, public sentiment toward the Transco Atlantic Sunrise Pipeline is no different. In recent months, efforts to construct the 180-mile proposed pipeline has spurred backlash and civil unrest.

The Atlantic Sunrise Pipeline is a $3 billion extension of the Transco system. It’s intended to transport Marcellus Shale gas from Pennsylvania to as far as Alabama. This is one of the many proposed pipeline projects in Pennsylvania.

While opponents continue to express their displeasure, the pipeline approval process moves forward. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission recently approved the planned pipeline project to proceed through Central Pennsylvania. The pipeline route will cut through 10 Pennsylvania counties (Columbia, Lancaster, Lebanon, Luzerne, Northumberland, Schuylkill, Susquehanna, Wyoming, Clinton, and Lycoming).

In Lancaster County alone, the pipeline will cross 37 miles. It is no surprise that disputes continue over which routes the pipeline will proceed. Property owners in the wake of the path will soon be receiving offers to purchase the necessary easements for the construction of the pipeline.  If landowners refuse to sell or negotiate with the pipeline’s land agents, condemnation notices will be filed to take the necessary property by eminent domain. Eminent domain is a power held by the government and some private corporations, such as energy and utility companies, to acquire private property for public use.

Furthermore, compressor stations built along the pipeline’s path potentially inflict serious health concerns. According to EcoWatch, 7,500 people could experience respiratory illnesses, sinus problems, vision impairment and severe headaches.

This is in addition to approximately 20,000 homes and more than 45,000 people who would live in the pipeline's evacuation zone. The evacuation zone consists of the 3,583 feet on either side of the pipeline and is defined as an area from which the public would need to withdraw in order to avoid injury in the event of an explosion or fire following a leak.

At this time, pipeline construction is scheduled to begin in mid-2017 and aims for an operational date of mid-2018. To learn more about the Atlantic Sunrise Pipeline, visit http://www.cpbj.com/article/20170310/CPBJ01/170309793/pipeline-coming-through-know-your-rights

The pipeline represents an immense intrusion on the public. Many private properties will be partially taken, while some might be taken entirely. Could the Atlantic Sunrise Pipeline affect your property? Find out today if the anticipated pipeline is coming to your community and discover other conditions that could potentially affect the value of your property. Let Impact Check instantly reveal present and future impacts that may affect your property.

Photo Credit: Amy Spangler

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