SUNBURY – The proposed Sunbury Pipeline is expected to bring jobs and economic development to The Valley—but there are some unanswered questions. The twenty-inch pipe will run for 35-miles from Lycoming County bringing natural gas into the new Hummels Station power plant in Shamokin Dam. During an On The Mark interview, several officials were questioned about the real number of jobs, eminent domain issues, and other concerns.
Robert Garrett, President and CEO of the Greater Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce estimates that the pipeline, power station and CSVT construction will bring more than 2,000 jobs to the area, “What we’d like to do is make sure that those opportunities for employment are filled by people right here in the valley.”
Larry Godlasky, UGI director of governmental affairs says the company is in the process of examining the environmental impact of the Sunbury Pipeline, “Right now we’re in what we call a pre-filing stage with FERC. We’re gathering information along the route to address any kind of environmental or archaeological concerns.”
He says property owners along the route will be compensated for use and impact to their property.
UGI will hold two open house events this month to allow property owners and interested parties to learn more about plans for the pipeline. One is in Lairdsville, PA, and UGI will be at the Sunbury Social Club February 25. Information is also available online at www.sunburypipeline.com. You can hear the On The Mark interview here. (Jennifer Wakeman)