Another pipeline expansion is approaching the region, with the recent filing of Tennessee Gas Pipeline’s (TGP) application to FERC for its certificate of public convenience and necessity to modify pipeline and compressor facilities in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

The Northeast Upgrade Project (NEUP) is a proposed expansion to TGP’s 300 Line, which is currently being expanded locally in Wayne and Pike counties. The project primarily consists of the construction of pipeline looping, which will run parallel to Tennessee’s existing 300 Line as well as modifications at existing compressor stations, including one in Lackawaxen Township.

Tennessee proposes to increase pipeline capacity to provide up to an additional 636,000 dekatherms per day of natural gas transportation service into northeast U.S. markets, to serve growing markets in the Northeast associated with development of the Marcellus Shale.

The project involves installing approximately 39.5 miles of five 30-inch pipeline loop segments in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, as well as adding an additional 22,310 horsepower of compression at two existing compressor stations located in Pennsylvania (12,000 horsepower at the compressor station in Lackawaxen Township). The project would increase the current right of way temporarily to 125 feet in most sections, with a permanent 75-foot right of way.

As specified in its application, during the first half of 2011, TGP will begin discussing land acquisition with landowners as soon as specific plans are completed detailing the proposed impacts to each property. Land agents will discuss easement rights already held by TGP and any additional easement rights that may be needed. Any payments for such easement rights and compensation for other material losses will be negotiated at that time.

Landowners will also have the opportunity to discuss the specifics of the crossing on their property and identify areas of concern. If appropriate, minor modifications may be made at this time to address specific local conditions that were not previously identified.

All landowner concerns will be noted. Landowners will also be provided with the process to address any construction-related problems. The Project’s toll-free telephone number, 877/366-2650, will remain active throughout permitting, acquisition, construction and restoration processes.

An economic impact analysis prepared by Rutgers University for TGP specifies that the project is expected to cost approximately $341 million. “While a lion’s share of the investment dollars will be spent on specialized materials and labor that will be brought into the region, about $58.9 million will be spent in Pennsylvania,” it states.

In Pennsylvania, the investment is estimated to generate as much as 1,100 job years (the equivalent of one full-time job lasting a single year), $37.8 million in income for local labor, $51.4 million in gross domestic product, $12.2 million in federal tax revenues, $1.9 million in state tax revenues and $2.1 million in local tax revenues. See the study at www.north eastupgradeproject.com.