For Immediate Release

SPRINGFIELD, NJ, FEB 14, 2011 – Construction on a pipeline that would bring clean energy and more than 5,200 jobs to New Jersey should be allowed to begin, according to Local 825 of the International Union of Operating Engineers.

Representing more than 6,500 heavy equipment operators in New Jersey and parts of New York, Local 825 is urging federal, state and local officials to approve the project without costly delay.

“New Jersey needs an expanded source of clean, reliable energy to fuel our economy and add jobs,” said Local 825 Business Manager Greg Lalevee. “This project will eliminate bottlenecks in the existing pipeline grid and allow natural gas to flow where it’s needed most, while creating more than 5,000 jobs.”

Continue reading “IUOE Local 825 Backs Clean Energy Pipeline Construction, Urges Federal, State & Local Officials to Approve” →

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) gave final approval of the natural gas pipeline expansion to run through parts of Jersey City and Bayonne and offshore of Hoboken. The approval is the latest in a years-long effort to find an acceptable route for the pipeline and allow work to begin.

The decision was preceded by FERC’s earlier finding that the project would be “evironmentally acceptable.”

That report said the 20-mile pipeline would have “limited adverse environmental impacts” mostly during the construction phase. The plan received final approval by the commission’s board on May 21.

IUOE Local 825 members had supported the pipeline project for more than two years to help meet increased demands for natural gas in our region and provide good jobs for our members.