The Mariner East 2 Pipeline project run by Sunoco Logistics will cover 300 miles in Pennsylvania and cut through properties in Blair, Cambria and Huntingdon counties.
Folks got to air concerns about the project and it’s water obstruction and encroachment permit applications on Monday night.
Melody Fleck of State College spoke at the DEP hearing, speaking against Sunoco Logistic’s pipeline.
She believes it’s dangerous.
“It’s very hazardous to people that live here, especially in frontline communities,” said Fleck. “Many of them are my friends so I feel compelled to talk whenever I can about these issues and let people know about the dangers.”
The natural gas pipeline will transport methane, propane, ethane and butane gases across our state.
People that make their living off this type of work were also at the hearing and say this will bring more jobs.
“These are good paying family sustaining wages that create opportunities not just for themselves but entire communities,” said Labors International Union rep Abe Amoros.
Many speakers spoke against the project including the Gerharts, who have been fighting the pipeline which will cross their land in Huntingdon County.
“And I am asking you right here and right now to please not come to my families home and further damage and destroy it. I am begging you. We don’t deserve it,” said Elise Gerhart.
Amoros With the Labors International Union says its a job that can be performed safely.
“We have a highly trained, highly skilled workforce of individuals that are trained to do this work safely and in an environmentally sound manner, because this is our community too.”
The DEP documented all the presentations from the hearing both for and against the Sunoco Pipeline.
Fleck was disheartened to see people that were there in support because of their livelihood.
“When I came and saw all the union workers I was heartbroken that we can’t be on the same side because what we want for Pennsylvania is the good for everyone and not to deprive anyone of their job,” Fleck said.
All meetings will start at 6:30pm. The DEP will accept any written comment up until August 24th.The other hearings are as listed:
Tuesday, August 9, 2016-Lebanon Valley Exposition Center, 80 Rocherty Road, Lebanon, PA 17042
Wednesday, August 10, 2016-Sykes Student Union at West Chester University, 110 W Rosedale Ave, West Chester, PA 19382
Tuesday, August 16, 2016-PA Farm Show Complex, Keystone Conference Center, 2300 N Cameron Street, Harrisburg, PA 17110
Thursday, August 18, 2016-Founder’s Hall Amphitheatre, Westmoreland County Community College, 145 Pavilion Lane, Youngwood, PA 15697
