2.0 PROPOSED ACTION

2-1 

2.0 PROPOSED ACTION 

 

 This section describes the proposed facilities and land requirements of the NE-07 Project. 

It is organized by the separate project components proposed by each applicant. The project 

components identified in this section are: the Millennium Phase I Project, the Empire Connector 

Project, the Algonquin Ramapo Expansion Project, and Iroquois MarketAccess Project. 

2.1 PROPOSED FACILITIES 

 The facilities proposed for the NE-07 Project are detailed by project component in the 

following subsections and are summarized in table 2.1-1. 

2.1.1 MILLENNIUM PIPELINE PROJECT – PHASE I 

 As explained in section 1, the Millennium Phase I Project would include some of the 

facilities and routing of the Millennium Pipeline Project that was approved by the Commission in 

the “Order Issuing Certificate, Granting and Denying Requests for Rehearing, and Granting and 

Denying Requests for Clarification” issued on September 19, 2002 (Millennium Order) and in the 

“Interim Order” issued December 19, 2001, with certain proposed modifications and additional 

facilities. Therefore, this FSEIS will only describe the proposed route modifications and new 

facilities, and will only update where appropriate the environmental information related to the 

portion of the approved pipeline route that would be constructed by Millennium for its Phase I 

Project. This document does not revisit issues related to the original Millennium Pipeline Project 

that were addressed in the 2001 FEIS and the Interim and Final Millennium Orders. As stated in 

section 1, that information has been incorporated by reference into this document. Millennium 

would still be required to abide by the environmental conditions of the Interim and Millennium 

Orders as they would relate to the project it has proposed in its amendment application and to any 

new requirements that may be developed during the analysis of the amendment application if the 

Commission approves the Millennium Phase I Project. 

 The Millennium Phase I Project pipeline facilities would include: 

• construction of about 181.7 miles of 30-inch-diameter pipeline by lift and lay (or same 

ditch replacement) and looping from Corning, New York, to Ramapo, New York, from 

MP 190.6 to MP 376.6 including four proposed route variations within this area;

• acquisition from Columbia and continued use of approximately 7.1 miles of 24-inchdiameter Line A-5 pipeline from MP 340.5 to MP 347.7 (this pipeline segment is 

associated with the Neversink River crossing);

• replacement of 10-inch-diameter pipeline with 24-inch-diameter pipeline between MPs 

343.8 and 344.0; 
2-2 

Table 2.1-1. 

Components of the NE-07 Project

Project Component and Proposed Facilities Status in Relation to Previous FERC Review 

Millennium Pipeline Project – Phase I (CP98-150-006, CP98-150-007, and CP98-150-008)

 This is an amendment, referred to as Phase I, of the prevmiles of 36-inch and 50.6 miles of 24-inch pipeline. Refer for the Millennium Pipeline Project (October 2001) for moregarding portions of the Phase I project that remain the sa

1) 181.7 miles of 30-inch pipeline (between previously certificated MPs 190.6 – 376.7) in Steuben, Chemung,Tioga, Broome, Delaware, Sullivan, Orange, and Rockland Counties, NY 

• Includes three route variations/realignments totaling approximately 19 miles along the existing NYSEG powerline ROW: a) Chemung Variation (MP 198.0 – 203.6) b) Tioga–Broome Variation (MP 232.2 – 245.0) c) Delaware Variation (MP 284.4 – 284.9) • Includes a 5,600-ft (1.1-mile) route variation/change around Warwick Isle subdivision (MP 350.8 – 351.6) • Also includes acquisition from Columbia and use of 7.1 miles of 

Columbia’s existing 24-inch Line A-5 pipeline (MP 340.5 – 347.7). Within this segment, a short length of existing 10-inch diameter pipe would be 

replaced with 24-inch diameter pipe (MP 343.8-344.0). • Columbia Line A-5 Replacement Project (CP05-19-000) (Millennium 

proposes as a component of its Phase I Project) a) Replacement of approximately 8.8 miles of 8- and 16-inch-diameter segments of the existing Line A-5 Pipeline with 30-inch pipeline (Orange and 

Rockland Counties, NY) between MP 367.9 and MP 376.7. b) Modification of three existing M&R stations on this segment of Line A-5 

to accommodate the larger diameter pipeline 

• Tuxedo/Central Hudson M&R Station • Sloatsburg M&R Station • Ramapo M&R Station 

c) Abandonment in place of about 1.0 mile of the existing Line A-5 pipeline

 General modifications to originally certificated project: 

• Proposed diameter of pipeline reduced from 36-i• MAOP reduced from 1,440 to 1,200 pounds psig• Four route variations on Millennium Pipeline 

Columbia Line A-5 Project. 

 These three route variations are substantially similar route; changes consist primarily of realigning the pipeline ROW (or down center of ROW) to the other side of ROWwhere the route diverges from the previously used corridorIn the previously issued FERC certificate for MilleCommission required Millennium to continue consulting placement of the pipeline within NYSEG ROW between submit a revised routing plan through this area that reduceduring construction and operation. The Tioga Broome VCommission requirement/condition.  Proposed Route change to accommodate an approved Warwick, Orange County, NY.  Millennium states that its proposed reuse of Line A-5 is crossing of (and associated impacts to) Neversink River an7.1 mi of ROW.  There are two proposed route variations on the Line A-5 

1) The Sterling Forest – Laurel Ridge Route Variatio2) HDD Alternative Route Across Ramapo River (mp 
2-3 

Table 2.1-1. (cont’d) 

Components of the NE-07 Project 

Project Component and Proposed Facilities Status in Relation to Previous FERC Review 

2) New compression facilities (one 15,002-bhp compressor unit) at the existing Columbia CS at Corning, Steuben County, NY 

 This is a new project modification necessitated by the p

Empire Connector Project at Corning, NY. 

3) New Wagoner Meter and Regulator (M&R) Station in Deer Park, NY FERC previously approved overpressure and valve faci

2001 FEIS for Millennium Pipeline Project). No change to 

4) Upgrades to the existing Ramapo M&R Station in Ramapo, NY FERC previously approved these upgrades (see 2001 FE

Project). 

5) Modification of waterbody crossing procedures for 7 major waterbodies Millennium is proposing modified construction techniq

Creek, Nanticoke Creek, Susquehanna River, W. Branch DDelaware R. Wallkill River, and Pochuck Creek. 

Empire Connector Project (Docket No. CP 06-5-000, previously PF04-16-000) 1) 77.9 miles of 24-inch pipeline in Ontario, Yates, Schuyler, Chemung, Steuben Counties, NY

• Includes replacement of 1.4 miles of existing Empire State Pipeline at north 

end of Project. 

2) New CS (20,620 hp) in Oakfield, Genesee County, NY3) Seven (7) mainline valves and two interconnect facilities: 

• Interconnect Facility 1/Mainline Valve 1 (Ontario County); • Mainline Valves 2 and 3 (Ontario County); • Mainline Valves 4 and 5 (Yates County); • Mainline Valve 6 (Schuyler County); and, • Interconnect Facility 2/Mainline Valve 7 (Chemung County).

 The existing Empire State Pipeline pressure reduction s

into this interconnect facility (IF-1/MLV-1).  Located at the existing Columbia Corning CS.

4) Construction of six (6) cathodic protection anode beds spaced along the proposed pipeline. Algonquin Ramapo Expansion Project (CP06-76-000, previously PF06-5-000) 1) Replacement of 4.93 miles of existing 26-inch pipeline with a 42-inch pipeline(Rockland County, NY) 

 Also, construction of new pig launchers and receivers a

2) Miscellaneous pipeline and meter station modifications: 

• Modification of the Ramapo Meter Station 202 (Rockland County, NY); • Relocation of 30-inch mainline valves on parallel Algonquin Loop Line 

(Rockland County, NY) (MP 0.0 and MP 4.93); and 

• Modification of Hudson River Valve Site (west bank Hudson River) 

(Rockland County, NY). 

 Ramapo station - Piping modifications including the adregulator valves at interconnect. Relocate data building anroads, as required.  Remove existing 30-inch-diameter mainline valves on pand relocate to new terminal locations for 26/42-inch pipel HRV site – Remove existing 12-inch valve and 18-inch 24-inch OD piping and 24-inch valve. 
2-4 

Table 2.1-1. (cont’d) 

Components of the NE-07 Project 

Project Component and Proposed Facilities Status in Relation to Previous FERC Review 

3) Modifications to three (3) existing compressor stations: 

• Hanover (Morris County), NJ - new 40x60-ft building and new Taurus turbine 

compressor, 7,700 hp; 

• Stony Point (Rockland County), NY - replace two existing Centaur 40 

turbines (4,700 hp each) with two Taurus 60 turbines (7,700 hp each). Rebuild existing Mars 90 turbine (12,600 hp) to a Mars 100 turbine (15,000 hp); and, 

• Southeast (Putnam County), NY – new 70x80-ft building and two new 

turbines: Taurus 60 (7,700 hp) and Taurus 70 (10,310 hp). 

 Also, add a new Emergency Generator in new skid mouRemove and replace the existing station boiler for fuel gas 30-inch discharge piping. Upgrade road. Minor piping mo Also, remove and replace existing Emergency Generatoexisting station boiler for fuel gas heater. Install new gas cand building modifications. Install approximately 150 ft o Also, add a new Emergency Generator in a new skid mobuilding. Remove and replace existing station boiler for fucoolers. Minor piping modifications. Upgrade road and p

4) New compressor station in Oxford (New Haven County), CT 

New Compressor Station with two Mars 100 turbine compressors (15,000 hp each) and a new Taurus 60 turbine compressor (7,700 hp). 

Includes all associated ancillary equipment, instrumenta

new gas coolers, four new buildings, access roads, utilities  Note: an alternative site (Site F) was also considered, loConnecticut, approximately 1 mile east of the originally prmile east of the Oxford Airport runway. Algonquin states site. 

5) New meter station at an existing Iroquois Gas Transmission System meter station site in Brookfield (Fairfield County), CT. 

 Install new meter building and filter separator, minor mpiping at meter station. Minor site work to upgrade roads awithin the same site Iroquois is proposing for their new comBrookfield, Connecticut. 

Iroquois Market Access Project (Docket No. CP02-31-002, previously PF06-6-000)1) New compressor station and gas coolers in Brookfield (Fairfield County), CT Note: Algonquin’s proposed new meter station at Broo

site Iroquois is proposing for their new compressor station

2) Installation of gas coolers at existing compressor station in Dover (Dutchess County), NY 
 2.0 PROPOSED ACTION

2-5 

• consolidation of the Columbia Line A-5 Replacement Project (proposed in Docket No. 

CP05-19-000.1 as part of the Millennium Phase I Project. As originally described in 

Columbia’s application, the Line A-5 Replacement Project would involve: 

- replacement of about 8.8 miles of 8- and 16-inch-diameter pipeline segments of 

the existing Line A-5 Pipeline with 30-inch-diameter pipeline (in Orange and 

Rockland Counties, New York) between MP 367.9 and MP 376.7 and includes 

possible route variations (see section 3). 

- modification of three existing M&R stations (the Central Hudson/Tuxedo, 

Sloatsburg, and Ramapo M&R Stations) to accommodate the larger diameter 

pipeline; and, 

- Abandonment in place of about 1.0 mile of the existing Line A-5 pipeline. 

• construction of a new 15,002 hp compressor station and M&R facilities at a site adjacent 

to Columbia’s existing Corning Compressor Station (MP 190.6) and on property owned 

by Columbia in Steuben County, New York; 

• construction of the Wagoner M&R station in Deer Park, New York; 

• upgrading the Ramapo M&R station in Ramapo, New York. 

Figure 2.1.1-1 shows the general locations of the facilities proposed for the Millennium 

Phase I Project. Detailed maps of the proposed facility locations and a compressor station plot 

plan are in appendix B1. As summarized in tables 2.1-1 and 2.2-1, the principal modifications 

that Millennium proposes for the Phase I Project, compared to the Millennium Pipeline Project 

approved in the Millennium Order are: 

• Reduction of the diameter of the pipeline from 36 inches to 30 inches; 

• Reduction of the Maximum Allowable Operating Pressure (MAOP) from 1,440 to 1,200 

pounds per square inch gauge (psig); 

• Realignment of a total of 19.0 miles of the approved pipeline route pursuant to 

environmental condition number 45 of the Interim Order and as a result of discussions 

with New York State Electric & Gas (NYSEG), where the approved route would parallel 

NYSEG’s overhead powerlines; Millennium and NYSEG have reached a preliminary 

agreement regarding the siting of the Millennium pipeline near all of NYSEG’s facilities. 

This agreement would require realignment of the Millennium pipeline in three locations: 

1. NYSEG Chemung Variation from MP 198.0 to MP 203.6, 

2. NYSEG Tioga-Broome Variation from MP 232.2 to MP 245.0 and, 

3. NYSEG Delaware Variation from MP 284.4 to MP 284.9. 

These variations are referred to collectively as the “NYSEG Route Variation”. 

• Rerouting the approved pipeline route for about 5,600 feet between MPs 350.8 and 351.6 

to accommodate a planned residential subdivision in the Town of Warwick, Orange 

County, New York (the Warwick Isle Route Variation, see section 3 for additional 

information);2

 

 

1

 Columbia requested that this proceeding be consolidated with the review of the Millennium Phase I Project. Columbia’s Line A-5 

Replacement Project would be along the easternmost portion of the pipeline route proposed for Millennium’s Phase I Project between 

MPs 367.9 and 376.4, or between the Central Hudson/Tuxedo and Ramapo M&R Stations in Orange and Rockland Counties, New 

York. 

2

 The previously certificated route in this area would have impacted the property owner’s ability to implement the approved 

subdivision plans. In coordination with the surrounding landowners, Millennium has developed the Warwick Isle Route Variation.
2-6
2-7 

Table 2.2-1. 

Land Requirements for the NE-07 Project

Project Component / Proposed Facilities

Previously 

Certificated? 

Total 

Length (mi) 

Land Affected 

During 

Construction / 

Temporary 

Acres 

Millennium Pipeline Project – Phase I (CP98-150-006 and CP98-150-007)181.7 miles of 30-inch pipeline (between previously certificated MPs 190.6 – 376.7) in Steuben, Chemung, Tioga, Broome, Delaware, Sullivan, Orange, and Rockland Counties, NY 

• Pipeline • Extra Workspace Areas • Access Roads • Pipe Storage/Contractor Yards 

(Yes/Part; All except pipeline variations listed below) 181.7 mi 2,049.6 

(included in pipeline ac.)95.6 237.3 

Above totals include the following breakdown by proposed variations (4) and pipeline replacements (2): 

Chemung Variation (MP 198.0 – 203.6) a) Pipeline b) Extra Workspace Areas c) Access Roads 

No 

5.89 mi 52.90 

13.30 0.34 

Tioga–Broome Variation (MP 232.2 – 245.0) a) Pipeline b) Extra Workspace Areas c) Access Roads 

No 

13.54 mi 106.27 

19.83 5.59 

Delaware Variation (MP 284.4 – 284.9) a) Pipeline b) Extra Workspace Areas c) Access Roads 

No 

0.52 mi 4.72 

2.08 0.00 

 Warwick Isle subdivision (MP 350.8 – 351.6) 

a) Pipeline b) Extra Workspace Areas c) Access Roads 

No 

1.21 mi 9.66 

2.04 0.00 

Acquisition from Columbia and use of 7.1 miles of Columbia’s existing 24-inch-diameter Line A-5 Replacement Project pipeline (MP 340.5 – 347.7). Within this segment, a short length of existing 10-inch-diameter pipe would be replaced with 24-inch-diameter pipe (MP 343.8-344.0). 

No 7.1 mi 1.8 
2-8 

Table 2.2-1. (cont’d) 

Land Requirements for the NE-07 Project

Project Component / Proposed Facilities

Previously 

Certificated? 

Total 

Length (mi) 

Land Affected 

During 

Construction / 

Temporary 

Acres 

Columbia Line A-5 Replacement Project (CP05-19-000) 

a) Replacement of approximately 8.8 miles of 8- and 16-inch-diameter 

segments of the existing Line A-5 Pipeline with 30-inch-diameter pipeline (Orange and Rockland Counties, NY) between MP 367.9 and MP 376.7. 

- Pipeline - Extra Workspace Areas - Access Roads - Pipe Storage/Contractor Yards 

b) Modification of three existing M&R stations on this segment of Line A-5 

to accommodate the larger diameter pipeline: 

- Tuxedo/Central Hudson M&R Station - Sloatsburg M&R Station - Ramapo M&R Station 

c) Abandonment in place of about 1.0 mile of the existing Line A-5 

pipeline 

No No No No 

8.8 mi 0.32 ac 0.34 ac 0.48 ac 1.0 mi 

101.8 13.7 11.5 12.5 0.32 0.34 0.48 0.0 

New compression facilities (totaling 15,002 bhp) at the existing Columbia Gas compressor station at Corning, Steuben County, NY 

No N/A 12.5 

New Wagoner M&R Station in Deer Park, Orange County, NY Yes N/A 0.5 Upgrades to the existing Ramapo M&R Station in Ramapo, NY Yes N/A 1.5 Modification of waterbody crossing procedures for seven (7) major waterbodies No N/A (included in 

pipeline acreage above) 

Total for Millennium Phase I Project 2,397.0 
2-9 

Table 2.2-1. (cont’d) 

Land Requirements for the NE-07 Project

Project Component / Proposed Facilities

Previously 

Certificated? 

Total 

Length (mi) 

Land Affected 

During 

Construction / 

Temporary 

Acres 

Empire Connector Project (Docket No. CP 06-5-000, previously PF04-16-000)77.9 miles of 24-inch-diameter pipeline in Ontario, Yates, Schuyler, Chemung, Steuben Counties, NY

• Includes replacement of 1.4 miles of existing Empire State Pipeline at north 

end of Project. - Pipeline - Extra Workspace Areas - Temporary Access Roads - Permanent Access Road - Pipe Storage/Contractor Yards/Offices/Trailers 

No 

77.9 mi 839 

24.0 13.3 9.7 59.0 

New compressor station (totaling 20,620 hp) in Oakfield, Genesee County, NY No N/A 19.0 Seven (7) mainline valves and two interconnect facilities: 

• Interconnect Facility 1/Mainline Valve 1 (Ontario County); • Mainline Valves 2 and 3 (Ontario County); • Mainline Valves 4 and 5 (Yates County); • Mainline Valve 6 (Schuyler County); and, • Interconnect Facility 2/Mainline Valve 7 (Chemung County).

No N/A 

0.5 0.04 0.04 0.02 0.6 

Six (6) new cathodic protection anode beds spaced along the proposed pipeline. No 0.45 mi total 4.1 

Total for Empire Connector Project 969.3 

Algonquin Ramapo Expansion Project (CP06-76-000, previously PF06-5-000)Replacement of 4.93 miles of existing 26-inch-diameter pipeline with a 42-inchdiameter pipeline (Rockland County, NY) and construction of new pig launchers and receivers at the terminal facilities. 

• Pipeline • Extra Workspace Areas • Access Roads • Pipe Storage/Contractor Yards 

No 

4.93 mi 60.5 

5.4 0.2 TBD 
2-10 

Table 2.2-1. (cont’d) 

Land Requirements for the NE-07 Project

Project Component / Proposed Facilities

Previously 

Certificated? 

Total 

Length (mi) 

Land Affected 

During 

Construction / 

Temporary 

Acres 

Miscellaneous pipeline and meter station modifications: 

• Modification of the Ramapo Meter Station 202 (Rockland County, NY); • Relocation of 30-inch mainline valves on parallel Algonquin Loop Line 

(Rockland County, NY) (AMP 0.0 and AMP 4.93); and 

• Modification of Hudson River Valve Site (west bank Hudson River) 

(Rockland County, NY). 

No 

N/A N/A N/A 

1.4 0.46 0.55 

Modifications to three (3) existing compressor stations: 

• Hanover (Morris County), NJ - new 40 by 60 foot building and new 

compressor unit (7,700 hp); 

• Stony Point (Rockland County), NY - replace and rebuild compressor units; 

and, 

• Southeast (Putnam County), NY – new 70 by 80 foot building and two new 

compressor units (totaling 18,010 hp) 

No 

N/A N/A N/A 

12.1 12.2 12.3 

New compressor station (37,700 hp) in Oxford (New Haven County), CT No N/A 12.7 New meter station at an existing Iroquois Gas Transmission System meter station site in Brookfield (Fairfield County), CT. 

No N/A 0.8 

Total for Ramapo Expansion Project 118.6 

Iroquois Market Access Project (Docket No. CP02-31-002, previously PF06-6-000)New compressor station and gas coolers in Brookfield (Fairfield County), CT. Yes (except gas 

coolers) 

N/A 7.3 

(0.3 ac of this is temp, would be allowed to revert) 

Installation of gas coolers at existing Dover Compressor Station in Dover (Dutchess County), NY. 

No N/A 2.7 

(1.0 ac of this is temp, would be allowed to revert)

Total for Market Access Project 10.0 
 2.0 PROPOSED ACTION

2-11 

• Acquisition from Columbia of about 7.1 miles of 24-inch-diameter pipeline between MPs 

340.5 and 347.7 in Orange County, New York, rather than replacing the pipeline with 

larger diameter pipeline through this area. This is in response to environmental condition 

number 34 of the Interim Order. Millennium was required to develop a contingency plan 

for the crossing of the Neversink River (MP 341.0), in consultation with the FWS, the 

NYSDEC, and The Nature Conservancy (TNC); in the event that the proposed bore 

construction technique for crossing this waterbody could not be completed. This 

consultation was required due to the presence of federally endangered species in the 

vicinity of this crossing, and minimizing disturbance to the streambed was desired. After 

conducting a site-specific detailed engineering analysis, Millennium concluded that a 

conventional bore under the Neversink River would not be practicable. However, 

Millennium also conducted a separate analysis of the anticipated market demand for the 

Phase I Project and the proposed construction and operation of the Phase I Project with a 

smaller pipeline diameter and a lower MAOP. It concluded that under these operating 

conditions, it could leave the existing 24-inch-diameter pipeline in place and include it 

within the Millennium pipeline system. Use of this segment of existing Line A-5 

pipeline would eliminate the need for the installation of a new pipeline across the 

Neversink River and for construction along a total of approximately 7.1 miles of ROW. 

• Construction of a new compressor station consisting of 15,002 bhp of compression, as 

well as M&R facilities, within the boundaries of property owned by Columbia and 

already occupied in part by Columbia’s Corning Compressor Station. Columbia would 

retain ownership of the Corning Compressor Station. Millennium would own and 

operate the new compression facilities, which would be built adjacent to Columbia’s 

compressor station. 

• Use of alternative construction techniques/procedures for crossing twelve (12) 

waterbodies: Catharine Creek (two crossings), Catatonk Creek, Owego Creek, Nanticoke 

Creek, Chenango River (two crossings), Susquehanna River, West Branch Delaware 

River, East Branch Delaware River, Wallkill River, and Pochuck Creek, in response to 

meetings with TNC, FWS, NYSDEC and COE. Millennium had previously proposed to 

cross several of these waterbodies using a horizontal bore technique. However, after 

additional engineering analysis, Millennium concluded that this method may not be 

practicable at these twelve waterbodies. 

Millennium anticipates that the Phase I Project would be completed and in service by 

November 1, 2008. Pending the receipt of all appropriate federal and state authorizations, 

Millennium plans to begin construction in 2007 in certain areas, but most of the construction of 

the Phase I Project would occur in 2008. The anticipated 2007 construction would include: 

• pipeline between MPs 287.2 and 287.5 (about 0.3 mile) to complete the crossing of New 

York State Route 17, two other roads, and the East Branch of the Delaware River, 

Delaware County, New York; 

• pipeline between MPs 328.9 and 331.7 (about 2.8 miles) in the Mongaup River/Rio 

Reservoir area, Sullivan County, New York; 

• pipeline between MPs 367.6 and 376.6 (about 9 miles) between the Tuxedo and Ramapo 

M&R Stations in areas managed by PIPC and through rugged, rocky terrain, in Orange 

and Rockland Counties, New York; and 

• mainline valves at the Tuxedo and Sloatsburg M&R stations. 
 2.0 PROPOSED ACTION

2-12 

In October 2007, Millennium would commence tree clearing along about 21.6 miles of its 

proposed pipeline route in Orange County, New York, in order to avoid potential conflicts with 

the summer habitat of the Indiana bat which is known to be in this area. This activity would 

occur between MP 346.0 near the Westtown M&R station and MP 367.6 near the Tuxedo M&R 

station. The tree clearing would occur prior to Millennium’s planned pipeline construction in 

these areas in 2008. All of the remaining Phase I Project areas would be constructed in 2008. 

Construction personnel for each spread would vary from about 150 to about 600. In 

addition, Millennium would use separate mini-crews ranging between 30 and 100 field personnel 

to construct the Corning Compressor Station, the Wagoner M&R Station, upgrades to the 

Ramapo M&R Station, and the major/larger waterbody crossings. 

Millennium anticipates that the majority of the cleanup and restoration work for 

construction occurring in 2007 would be completed by November 1, 2007, and that cleanup and 

restoration of construction occurring in 2008 would be completed by November 1, 2008. 

However, depending on prevailing weather conditions, some of the final restoration and 

revegetation work may take place during the following growing season (2008 and 2009, 

respectively). 

2.1.2 EMPIRE CONNECTOR PROJECT

The Empire Connector Project would involve: 

• Construction of about 78 miles of 24-inch-diameter pipeline from an interconnection with 

the existing Empire State Pipeline at SMP3

 91.0 near the Town of Victor in Ontario 

County, through Yates, Schuyler, Chemung, and Steuben Counties, New York, where it 

would interconnect with the Millennium Pipeline at Columbia’s existing Corning 

Compressor Station. 

• Replacement (lift and lay) of approximately 1.4 miles of the existing Empire State 

Pipeline at the northwest end of the project in Ontario County. 

• Relocation and replacement of an existing pressure reduction station at SMP 92.4 with a 

new pressure reduction station at CMP4

 0.0 of the Empire Connector Pipeline. About 

180 feet of pipeline would be constructed to connect the new lift and lay pipeline to the 

new pressure reduction station and about 255 feet of discharge pipeline would be 

constructed to discharge the reduced pressure gas to the eastern end of the Empire State 

Pipeline that operates at 1000 psig. The existing pipeline between the points of 

interconnection for the new lines and the pressure reduction station would be purged and 

capped and remain in place. 

• Construction of a new compressor station in Oakfield, Genesee County, New York (near 

Empire State Pipeline’s existing SMP 47.0). The station would consist of two centrifugal 

turbine-driven compressor units, each rated at approximately 10,310 hp, for a total of 

20,620 hp. The new compressor station would be connected to the existing Empire State 

Pipeline through new suction and discharge pipelines. The station’s other components 

and equipment would include: 

- Three buildings: compressor building, auxiliary building, and meter building, 

 

3

 “SMP” refers to mileposts on Empire’s existing pipeline. 

4

 “CMP” refers to mileposts on the Empire Connector Pipeline. 
 2.0 PROPOSED ACTION

2-13 

built on reinforced concrete foundations; and, 

- Valves, fuel gas/start gas equipment, heating equipment, air systems equipment, 

tanks and pumps (four fuel storage tanks, one waste oil tank, and sump pumps), 

auxiliary piping, electrical equipment including back-up generator, system 

control equipment (to allow automatic and manual control and monitoring of the 

station and supervisory control and data acquisition [SCADA] systems), site 

security and safety. 

- A new, 20-foot-wide, 2,000+-foot-long permanent access road would be 

constructed from Lockport Road to the compressor station. 

• Construction of seven (7) mainline valves (used to stop the flow of gas and to isolate 

sections of the pipeline during maintenance and repair activities) at sites located along the 

proposed pipeline ROW with spacing consistent with the requirements of 49 Code of 

Federal Register (CFR) part 192. 

• Construction of an interconnect facility at CMP 78.2, to connect with the proposed 

Millennium Phase I Project at the site of Columbia’s existing Corning Compressor 

Station . 

• Construction of six cathodic protection anode beds spaced along the proposed pipeline to 

provide corrosion protection. Each cathodic protection area would include a connection 

to an electrical service line, a connection to the pipeline, and the underground installation 

of a header cable with 20 to 25 anodes at 15 foot spacing. These facilities would each 

require an area approximately 50 feet wide by 600 feet long for installation. 

Figure 2.1.2-1 shows the general locations of the facilities proposed as part of the Empire 

Connector Project. Detailed maps of the proposed facility locations, a compressor station plot 

plan, conceptual mainline valve site plans, conceptual interconnect site plans, and cathodic 

protection areas are in appendix B2. 

Empire anticipates that construction would commence in the Spring of 2007, pending the 

receipt of all appropriate federal and state authorizations, and be completed in November 2007, 

with the possible exception of final restoration of portions of the construction ROW. If 

restoration is not completed by October 1, Empire would develop and implement a winterization 

plan to stabilize and monitor disturbed areas through the winter and subsequent spring thaw. In 

this event, all restoration activities would be completed no later than the Spring of 2008. 

Empire anticipates that the construction of pipeline facilities would require two 

construction spreads. Separate construction crews are anticipated for the construction of the 

compressor station and the lift-and-lay pipeline replacement segment. Empire stated it would 

cross environmentally sensitive resources (e.g., waterbodies with designated fisheries) and 

agricultural lands (i.e., topsoil management) in accordance with state timing restrictions where 

applicable. This could require the use of additional “tie-in” crews working separately from the 

main construction spreads to connect pipeline segments together where areas have been skipped 

due to construction timing or other restrictions. 
2-14
 2.0 PROPOSED ACTION

2-15 

2.1.3 ALGONQUIN RAMAPO EXPANSION PROJECT

The Algonquin Ramapo Expansion Project would involve: 

 

• Replacement of about 4.9 miles of Algonquin's existing 26-inch-diameter mainline with a 

42-inch-diameter pipeline. This replacement would begin at the Algonquin/Columbia 

interconnection in Ramapo, New York, extend northeast towards the Stony Point 

Compressor Station along the existing Algonquin ROW, and end at a new terminal in the 

Town of Haverstraw, New York. The MAOP for the 42-inch-diameter pipeline segment 

would be 850 pounds per square inch (psi). After installation of the new 42-inchdiameter pipeline along this 4.9-mile-long segment of Algonquin’s ROW, natural gas 

flow from Algonquin’s 30-inch-diameter pipeline would crossover to the new 42-inchdiameter pipeline. Natural gas flow in Algonquin’s remaining 26-inch-diameter pipeline 

would crossover into the 30-inch-diameter pipeline along this segment. 

• Modification of facilities at Algonquin’s existing M&R Station 202 (Columbia Gas 

Meter Station) in the Town of Ramapo, Rockland County, New York, including: 

- piping and regulator valve modifications to accommodate the crossover; 

- the addition of gas heaters; 

- regulator valves; 

- a 30-inch-diameter pig receiver installed on the 26-inch-diameter mainline; 

- a 48-inch-diameter pig launcher installed on the 42-inch-diameter replacement 

pipeline; and 

- a new 8-foot by 10-foot Remote Terminal Unit (RTU) building to house the RTU 

and battery back-up systems as well as instrumentation for remote operation. 

The terminal facilities at the existing Columbia interconnect would allow split 

flow into Algonquin’s 26/42-inch- and 30-inch-diameter mainlines. The Ramapo 

Interconnect/Meter Station 202 is currently operating as a delivery point by 

Algonquin to the Columbia system. Columbia is proposing to modify the 

existing meter station to allow for reverse flow to Algonquin. These 

modifications would include: 

- Installation of new gas heaters and regulator valves to enable receipt of gas from 

Columbia; and 

- Expansion of the existing station yard to accommodate the installation of these 

new facilities. 

• New pig launcher and pig receiver on the terminal facility/Algonquin interconnect at 

Haverstraw, New York, including: 

- a new 30-inch-diameter pig launcher on the 26-inch-diameter mainline; 

- a new 48-inch-diameter pig receiver on the new 42-inch-diameter pipeline 

segment; 

- crossover piping with various valves to transfer gas from the new 42-inchdiameter pipeline segment back into the existing 30-inch-diameter loop line; and 

- crossover piping with various valves to transfer gas from the existing 30-inchdiameter loop pipeline back into the existing 26-inch-diameter mainline. 
 2.0 PROPOSED ACTION

2-16 

• Relocation of the existing 26-inch and 30-inch mainline valves (MLVs) No. 13 and No. 

14 to the new terminal locations. The corresponding 30-inch-diameter valves on the 

existing Algonquin 30-inch-diameter pipeline would also be relocated to the new 

terminal locations. 

- Approximately 600 feet of new, permanent access road would be constructed at 

the new terminal facility in Haverstraw, New York (AMP 4.93). In addition, a 

new 12-inch-diameter remote blow-off line, including an about 150-ft road 

extension, would also be required at this location due to the proximity of highvoltage, overhead power lines. 

• Modifications at the existing Stony Point Compressor Station, Town of Stony Point, 

Rockland County, New York. Modifications would occur within the existing station 

fence, and include: 

- Replacement of two existing 4,700-hp (ISO) Centaur 40 turbines, with two 

7,700-hp (ISO) Taurus 60 turbines; 

- Upgrade of an existing, 12,600-hp (ISO) Mars 90 turbine to a 15,000-hp (ISO) 

Mars 100 turbine; 

- Associated upgrades to the fuel gas system, inlet air and exhaust systems and 

modification to the existing compressor piping; 

- New gas coolers and noise mitigation would be installed on the station discharge 

piping. Approximately 100 feet of the discharge piping from the compressors to 

the coolers would be excavated and recoated for high temperature service; 

- Approximately 150 feet of road would be installed to access the new gas coolers; 

and, 

- Replacement of the existing emergency generator and fuel gas heaters due to 

increased requirements from the new units. 

• Piping modifications at the existing Hudson River Valve Site to improve throughput by 

eliminating the flow restriction on existing aboveground and below ground facilities 

(located on the west bank of the Hudson River in Stony Point, New York). The work 

activities would be located at the river crossing valves, approximately 150 feet from the 

river, west of the existing Conrail railroad corridor and West Shore Road/Gray's Mill 

Road. Activities at this site include: 

- Removal of an existing 12-inch-diameter valve and 18-inch-diameter piping 

between the 26-inch-diameter mainline and an existing 24-inch-diameter 

auxiliary line and replacing it with 24-inch-diameter valves and piping. 

Approximately 100 linear feet of pipe would be removed and replaced. 

• Modifications at the existing Southeast Compressor Station, Town of Southeast, Putnam 

County, New York. Modifications would occur on the existing station property, and 

include: 

- Installation of two new turbine-compressors: one new 7,700-hp (ISO) Taurus 60 

unit, and one new 10,310-hp (ISO) Taurus 70 unit; 

- Construction of a new compressor building (approximately 70 feet x 80 feet); 

- New suction and discharge piping to the new compressor units, and extension of 

the existing enclosure for unit valves and ancillary equipment; 
 2.0 PROPOSED ACTION

2-17 

- New gas coolers and noise mitigation would be installed on the existing 

discharge piping. Approximately 150 feet of the existing discharge piping would 

be excavated and recoated for high temperature service; 

- Approximately 150 feet of new road would be installed to access the new 

coolers; and, 

- A new skid-mounted building (approximately 12 feet x 40 feet) would be 

installed to house a new 350 KW emergency generator, battery back-up system 

and power distribution system for the new compressor units, gas coolers and 

other ancillary equipment. The existing boilers for the fuel gas system would be 

replaced due to increased heating requirements for the new units. The existing 

station roads would be modified to accommodate the new compressor building 

and other modifications. 

• New compressor station, Oxford Compressor Station, located in the Town of Oxford, 

New Haven County, Connecticut. The new station would include: 

- Three new turbine-compressors: two new 15,000-hp (ISO) Mars 100 turbines, 

and one new 7,700-hp (ISO) Taurus 60 turbine; 

- New compressor building (about 80 feet by 150 feet); 

- Other new buildings, including office/warehouse building (about 70 feet by 65 

feet), a control/auxiliary building (about 80 feet by 40 feet), and a 

garage/maintenance building (about 50 feet by 60 feet). Algonquin would work 

with local officials to develop acceptable building exteriors that would be 

compatible with other commercial/light industrial structures in the area; 

- Additional equipment includes an emergency generator, an air compressor, lube 

oil coolers, fuel gas heater, station control system, emergency shut down system 

and normal domestic utility systems for heating, cooling and lighting of the 

buildings; 

- New tie-ins would be made to the existing Algonquin mainline pipelines that 

pass through the property and new suction and discharge piping would be 

installed from the pipelines to the compressors. Algonquin plans to install 

enclosures around the unit valves, air inlet and exhaust systems at the compressor 

building to reduce noise and improve the appearance of the facility; 

- Gas coolers would be installed on the station discharge piping; 

- About 1,600 feet of new access road would be installed from a new entrance off 

Airport Road in Oxford to the station. Additional roads and parking areas would 

be installed to connect the buildings inside the station; 

- A new connection would be made to access commercial power in the area. A 

new water well and septic system would also be installed for domestic purposes; 

and, 

- New security fencing would be installed around the station and all sensitive 

above ground facilities, and landscaping would be added to improve the 

appearance of the facility. 

- Algonquin states that this new station is required to recover pressure losses that 

would occur on the Algonquin system downstream of the Southeast Compressor 

Station and allow transportation of the additional volumes of natural gas 

proposed for the project. The new Oxford Compressor Station would also 
 2.0 PROPOSED ACTION

2-18 

provide enhanced reliability and flexibility for Algonquin’s existing shippers and 

customers by providing back-up compression capability on the Algonquin 

system. 

• Modification of the existing Hanover Compressor Station in the Town of Hanover, 

Morris County, New Jersey, would include: 

- a new compressor building (40 feet by 60 feet) and courtyard to house a new, 

7,700hp Taurus 60 turbine and ancillary equipment and controls; 

- a new gas cooler system for discharge into the existing 30-inch-diameter 

Algonquin loop in this area. 

- new foundations, changes to the existing station yard, and about 150 feet of new 

permanent access road. A new skid-mounted auxiliary building (about 40 feet by 

12 feet) also would be installed to house a new emergency generator, battery 

back-up system, and the power distribution for the new compressor, gas coolers 

and other ancillary equipment; and 

- Modification of the existing roads and parking areas to accommodate the new 

facilities. 

• New meter station at the existing Iroquois Brookfield Meter Station (M&R station #251) 

site in Brookfield, Fairfield County, Connecticut. The new meter station would consist 

of: 

- a new meter building containing two 12-inch-diameter and one 4-inch-diameter 

ultrasonic meters, valves, piping, instrumentation and controls; 

- new filter-separator and associated liquid handling facilities, including piping and 

foundations; and, 

- minor modifications to the existing station roads. 

Figure 2.1.3-1 shows the general locations of the facilities proposed as part of the 

Ramapo Expansion Project. Detailed maps of the proposed facility locations and aboveground 

facility plot plans are in appendix B3. 

Algonquin anticipates that construction of these proposed project components would 

commence in the second quarter of 2007, pending the receipt of all appropriate federal and state 

authorizations, and all construction would be completed, by the fourth quarter of 2007. 

Algonquin anticipates using one construction spread for the pipeline replacement with a total 

workforce of approximately 150 personnel. Separate contractors with a workforce of 

approximately 50 to 60 personnel each would be responsible for the construction activities at each 

compressor station site. The duration of construction for the aboveground facilities would be 

about six months. 
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2.1.4 IROQUOIS MARKETACCESS PROJECT 

 The Iroquois MarketAccess Project would involve: 

• Construction of a new transfer compressor station in the Town of Brookfield, Fairfield 

County, Connecticut. Iroquois owns two parcels on High Meadow Road in Brookfield, 

Connecticut, which together total 68.3 acres. One parcel is about 65.0 acres in size. The 

second, 3.3-acre parcel, contains the existing Brookfield Sales Meter Station and 

Algonquin’s M&R Station # 251. The proposed facilities at this location would include: 

- a new compressor building to house a 7,700 hp compressor; 

- new control/utility buildings, a storage building, a local control building, a cooler 

MCC building, a small emergency generator, and a domestic gas building; 

- gas coolers to accommodate deliveries of natural gas. The gas coolers would 

consist of four bays (each bay consisting of two fan units), with a combined 

footprint of about 50 feet by 60 feet, and would be about 20 to 25 feet in height; 

- associated paved parking and access areas, including a 500-ft-long driveway for 

vehicular access between High Meadow Road and the compressor station;5

 and, 

- new chain link fence to enclose the new compressor station. 

• New gas coolers at Iroquois’s existing Dover Compressor Station in Dover, Duchess 

County, New York. This existing Dover Compressor Station is within a 45.89-acre 

parcel owned by Iroquois and accessed from Dover Furnace Road (County Road 26). 

- The gas coolers would be installed outside of the existing fenced compressor 

station, about 100 feet east of the fence line. The fence line would be expanded 

to incorporate these facilities. 

- The proposed cooling facilities would consist of eight bays, with a combined 

footprint of about 50 feet by 120 feet, and would be about 20 to 25 feet in height. 

A cooler local control building would be installed adjacent to the coolers. 

Figure 2.1.4-1 shows the general locations of the facilities proposed as part of the 

Iroquois MarketAccess Project. Detailed maps of the proposed facility locations and 

aboveground facility plot plans are in appendix B4. 

Iroquois anticipates that construction of these proposed facilities would commence in 

April 2007, pending the receipt of all appropriate federal and state authorizations, and be 

completed in October 2007. Iroquois anticipates organizing two construction spreads for this 

project with a total workforce of approximately 100 personnel. One spread would be responsible 

for construction of the Brookfield Compressor Station and the other would be responsible for the 

construction of the gas coolers at the Dover Compressor Station. 

 

5 The road would be built by improving the existing roadbed into the property. In addition, paved access would be constructed from 

the new compressor station facilities to the existing meter station. 
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Atlantic Ocean

Croghan

Boonville

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Proposed Gas Cooler Facility

at Dover Station

Proposed Brookfield

Compressor Station

NY

VT

PA

NH

MA

CT

NJ

ME

RI

Essex

St Lawrence

Lewis

Franklin

Hamilton

Ulster

Oneida

Clinton

Herkimer

Delaware

Otsego

Jefferson

Suffolk

Warren

Sullivan

Oswego

Orange

Cayuga

Tioga

Saratoga

Broome

Dutchess

Greene

Chenango

Fulton

Fairfield

Madison

Albany

Onondaga

Washington

Columbia

Cortland

Rensselaer

Windham

New London

New Haven

Tompkins

Middlesex

Nassau

Montgomery

Putnam

Rockland

Schenectady

Queens

Litchfield Hartford

Schoharie

Tolland

Westchester

Chemung

Kings

Bronx

Wayne

Richmond

Seneca

Schuyler

New York

Seneca

Queens

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Y:\Projects\Iroquois\System_Expansion\Pre_Filing\Figure_1.1-1_Iroquois_System_Map.mxd

MarketAccess Project

Iroquois System Map

Figure 1.1-1

Map Location Legend

Existing Iroquois Mainline

Eastchester Extension

Proposed Brookhaven Lateral

!( Existing Compressor Station

Project #: 03757-024 January 2006

μ

0 5 10 20 30 40 50

Miles

Scale: 1:2,500,000

Map Projection: State Plane NY Long Island, NAD 83, Feet.

Non-Internet Public

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2.2 LAND REQUIREMENTS 

 The land requirements for construction and operation of the proposed NE-07 Project are 

summarized in the following subsections. Table 2.2-1 details the land requirements by project 

component. 

Each pipeline company proposes using certain amounts of workspace to construct their 

respective projects, and has shown the locations and amounts of proposed workspace and 

permanent land requirements on construction alignment sheets filed with the Commission. The 

amount of construction workspace in specific areas varies as necessary to accommodate 

equipment needs, site conditions, and safety requirements. The land requirements for pipeline 

construction typically consist of a nominal construction ROW of a prescribed width (usually 75 

feet), plus temporary extra workspace areas (also referred to as additional temporary workspace 

[ATWS] areas) outside the nominal construction ROW. These ATWS are where additional space 

may be required to facilitate construction across roads, railroads, rivers, waterbodies, wetlands; 

for crossovers of existing pipelines; in areas of side slope, steep slope, pasture and cultivated 

agricultural land (to accommodate storage of topsoil); and to accommodate equipment turnaround 

areas. Typically, each extra workspace would be between 100 and 150 feet long and between 15 

and 75 feet wide, and would be situated on the working side of the construction ROW with the 

exception of agricultural and pasture lands where storage of topsoil is required. Similarly, in 

areas where the ROW may be restricted (such as near residences or other sensitive resource 

areas), the temporary construction ROW may be reduced to minimize impacts on these resources. 

Aboveground facilities would either be adjacent to and/or within the operational ROW 

(compressor stations, M&R stations, blowdown valves) or within the operational ROW (mainline 

valves and pig launchers/receivers). 

Project construction would also require disturbance in areas outside the construction 

ROW for pipeline and aboveground faculties. These areas would include temporary and 

permanent access roads and areas used for pipe storage/contractor yards. Although access to the 

construction ROW would generally be from existing public roads and along the construction 

ROW, some identified private roads would be used for access to the construction ROW. These 

may require minor grading or improvements to support construction traffic. The applicants have 

also identified areas that would be used as pipe storage/contractor yards. These yards are 

typically located on level sites in open or commercial areas near construction work areas. 

2.2.1 MILLENNIUM PIPELINE PROJECT – PHASE I AND COLUMBIA LINE A-5 

 REPLACEMENT PROJECT

Millennium would use a nominal 75-foot-wide pipeline construction ROW plus extra 

workspaces identified in specific locations to facilitate construction. Following construction, 

Millennium would maintain a 50-foot-wide permanent ROW along its pipeline. Detailed crosssections, showing the pipeline within the proposed construction and operational rights-of-way, 

are in appendix C. 

 Similarly, for the Columbia Line A-5 Replacement Project, a 75-foot-wide construction 

ROW would be used and 50-foot-wide permanent ROW would be maintained. Approximately 90 

percent of the Line A-5 Replacement pipeline length would be constructed as lift-and-lay of the 

existing pipeline, thereby minimizing the amount of new ROW required. As stated in section 1, 

Millennium would construct Columbia’s Line A-5 Replacement Project as part of its Phase I 
 2.0 PROPOSED ACTION

2-23 

Project. The construction, restoration, operation, and maintenance procedures proposed by 

Millennium would apply to the Line A-5 project, too. 

Both existing public and private roads would be used to reach construction workspaces. 

Where new access roads are required, Millennium would use previously disturbed areas if 

available. Access roads may need to be graded up to a width of 25 feet with additional width at 

turns and at entrances to public roads. For the previously certificated Millennium Pipeline 

Project, Millennium had identified (and the Commission approved) 121 private roads that would 

be used for access to the construction ROW along the pipeline ROW proposed for the Phase I 

Project. Millennium has identified 17 additional private roads it proposes to use for access to the 

project area. These additional roads include: 

• Two roads in Broome County (MPs 261.2 and 263.2); 

• Three roads in Delaware County (MPs 275.8, 277.0, and 291.8); 

• Two roads in Sullivan County (MPs 304.9 and 324.8); 

• Six roads in Orange County (MPs 350.9, 351.1, 351.2, 368.8, , 369.8, and 369.9); and, 

• Three roads in Rockland County (MPs 373.3, 375.0, and 376.6). 

As detailed in table 2.2-1, construction of the Millennium Phase I Project (including the 

Columbia Line A-5 Replacement) would affect a total of about 2,395.0 acres. This total includes 

workspaces for construction and replacement of the pipelines, modification of the three M&R 

stations on Line A-5, the Corning Compressor Station, the previously approved Wagoner M&R 

Station, and modifications to the Ramapo M&R Station. This construction acreage total includes 

the permanent ROW and temporary workspaces (temporary construction ROW; extra workspace 

areas; storage/contractors’ yards; staging areas; storage areas for slash, brush, logs, and excess 

rock; and access roads). About 1,288.6 acres of the construction workspace would be temporary 

workspace that would be restored and allowed to revert to its previous land use following 

construction. Millennium proposes to use temporarily about 226.1 acres for 

pipe/contractor/storage yards it identified in its May 3, 2006 amendment application (see 

appendix B1 for the locations of these areas). 

 The project would permanently occupy a total of about 1,106.4 acres , including 1,099.4 

acres for the Phase I Project permanent pipeline ROW, 6.5 acres for the Corning Compressor 

Station, 0.5 acres for the new Wagoner M&R Station to be constructed at the existing M&R 

station at the interconnection of Columbia’s Line K and Line A-5, which would be replaced by 

the construction of the Phase I Project pipeline at MP 337.9, and 1.5 acres for the upgrades to the 

Ramapo Meter Station. 

2.2.2 EMPIRE CONNECTOR PROJECT 

Empire would use a nominal 75-foot-wide construction ROW for installation of the 

pipeline, with extra workspaces identified in specific locations to facilitate construction. Where 

the proposed route would parallel existing pipelines, Empire would maintain a minimum 

separation distance of 25 feet from the existing active pipeline. Following construction, Empire 

would maintain a 50-foot-wide permanent ROW easement along its pipeline. Detailed crosssections showing the pipeline within the proposed construction and operational rights-of-way are 

in appendix C. 

Empire would use public and private roads to reach construction work areas on a 

temporary basis. To the extent possible, Empire would use existing access roads and maintain 
 2.0 PROPOSED ACTION

2-24 

and/or improve them as needed. In addition, Empire would develop and maintain permanent 

access roads for access to its aboveground facilities. The proposed temporary and permanent 

access roads are listed in Appendix D. Where new access roads would be required, Empire 

would use previously disturbed areas if available, and would design and construct them in 

accordance with local, state, and federal standards and codes (e.g., with respect to specifications, 

materials, adequate drainage) as applicable. 

As detailed in Table 2.2-1, construction of the Empire Connector Project would affect a 

total of about 969.3 acres, including workspace for construction and replacement of the pipelines, 

the new Oakfield Compressor Station, seven mainline valves, two interconnect facilities, and six 

cathodic protection anode beds. This construction acreage includes the permanent ROW and 

temporary work areas (temporary construction ROW; extra workspace areas; storage/contractors’ 

yards; staging areas; and temporary and permanent access roads). About 488.8 acres of the 

construction work area would be used temporarily and would be restored and allowed to revert to 

its previous land use following construction. 

 The project would permanently affect a total of about 484.6 acres, including 472.0 acres 

for the permanent pipeline ROW, 6.7 acres for the Oakfield Compressor Station, 4.1 acres total 

for the cathodic protection anode beds, 1.2 acres for a permanent access road, and a total of 0.55 

acre for the mainline valve and interconnect facility sites. 

2.2.3 ALGONQUIN RAMAPO EXPANSION PROJECT 

Algonquin would use a nominal 100-foot-wide construction ROW for 

construction/replacement of the pipeline replacement portion of its project (replacing 4.9 miles of 

26-inch-diameter pipeline with 42-inch-diameter pipeline). The proposed replacement pipeline 

would be typically an in-situ, same ditch, or lift and lay replacement (i.e., within the original 

trenchline) in the existing Algonquin ROW that is co-located with Algonquin’s 30-inch-diameter 

Loop Line and existing 75-foot-wide permanent easement. Therefore, Algonquin’s 100-footwide construction ROW would be situated within its existing 75-foot-wide permanent ROW, plus 

an additional 25 feet of temporary workspace. Following construction, Algonquin would 

maintain the same width (75 feet) for its permanent ROW. Detailed cross-sections, showing the 

pipeline within the proposed construction and operational rights-of-way, are in appendix C. 

Algonquin identified one 0.73-acre remote staging area for use during construction, near 

Algonquin MP (AMP) 3.15. At this time, Algonquin has not identified any additional areas for 

pipe storage and contractor yards in the vicinity of the proposed facilities. Once these areas are 

identified, Algonquin would perform all necessary surveys and provide the locations to the 

Commission for review and approval. 

Algonquin has identified eight temporary access roads, consisting of a combination of 

existing paved and gravel roads that would be used to access the pipeline ROW during 

construction. These proposed access roads would intersect the construction ROW at AMPs 0.11, 

0.28, 1.32, 3.18, 4.10, 4.33, 4.68, and 4.94. Algonquin proposes to use these access roads with 

minor improvements, as necessary, to the surfaces of the roads. Some of these access roads are 

currently used by Algonquin to access the existing pipeline ROW for maintenance, and are 

considered permanent access points (access roads at AMPs 0.28 and 4.33). The temporary access 

road at AMP 0.11 would be used by Millennium and Algonquin during construction. Algonquin 

has also identified the need to construct one new permanent access road at AMP 4.93. This 

permanent access road would provide Algonquin with a means of permanent access to the 
 2.0 PROPOSED ACTION

2-25 

downstream pipeline terminal installation and proposed 12-inch remote blow-off valve at 

approximate AMP 4.93.

As detailed in table 2.2-1, construction of the Ramapo Expansion Project would affect a 

total of about 118.6 acres, including workspace for the pipeline replacement, modifications at the 

three existing compressor stations, construction of the new Oxford Compressor Station, 

modifications at the Ramapo Meter Station 202, construction of the new Brookfield Meter 

Station, the relocation of two mainline valves, and the modification of various ancillary piping. 

This construction acreage includes the permanent pipeline ROW and temporary work areas 

(temporary construction ROW; extra workspace areas; and staging areas; but does not include the 

anticipated additional acreage for temporary storage yards that Algonquin would file with the 

Commission when identified). About 36.8 acres of the construction work area would be used 

temporarily and would be restored and allowed to revert to its previous land use following 

construction. General plot plans for the proposed aboveground facilities are in appendix B3. 

 The project would permanently occupy a total of about 81.8 acres, including 41.1 acres 

for the permanent pipeline ROW, 1.4 acres at the Ramapo Meter Station (no expansion to 

existing property), 0.46 acres for construction of remote blow-off valves, 36.6 acres for 

modifications to the three existing compressor stations (no expansion to existing properties), 12.7 

acres of developed land at the new Oxford Compressor Station, and 0.8 acres at the new 

Brookfield meter station. The construction workspace for the 30-inch mainline valve relocations 

is included in the workspace for the pipeline replacement component of the project. 

2.2.4 IROQUOIS MARKETACCESS PROJECT 

 Based on its preliminary design, Iroquois estimates that the MarketAccess Project would 

require a total of about 10.0 acres of workspace for construction of the new Brookfield 

Compressor Station and installation of the gas coolers at the existing Dover Compressor Station. 

Of this total, a total of approximately 8.7 acres would be required permanently for operation, 

including 7.0 acres of developed areas (3.3 of these acres are within the Brookfield Sales Meter 

Station fence line) at the proposed Brookfield Compressor Station and 1.7 acres of developed 

area at the existing Dover Compressor Station. All of the proposed construction activities would 

take place on land owned by Iroquois. Iroquois would restore the work areas following the 

completion of construction in accordance with our Upland Erosion Control, Revegetation, and 

Maintenance Plan (Plan) and Wetland and Waterbody Construction and Mitigation Procedures 

(Procedures). Plot/site plans of the proposed Brookfield transfer compressor station/gas coolers 

and the proposed gas coolers at the existing Dover Compressor Station are in appendix B4. 

Iroquois would use public roads and existing paved driveways on the subject properties 

to access the work locations. As a result, Iroquois has not proposed to construct any new, off-site 

access roads for this project. 
 2.0 PROPOSED ACTION

2-26 

2.3 CONSTRUCTION PROCEDURES 

 Pipeline construction typically proceeds as a moving assembly line, as shown in figure 

2.3-1 and described below. Most activities in the construction sequence proceed at an average 

rate of about 3,000 to 4,000 feet per day, depending on terrain and the density and/or sensitivity 

of nearby development and environmental resources. Accordingly, each area along the pipeline 

would be subject to each phase of pipeline construction activities for a limited timeframe during 

the construction period. When construction conditions are ideal (e.g., generally flat, few 

obstacles, and good weather), it is reasonable to assume that a construction spread or team would 

take about six to eight weeks to work through a one-mile section of pipeline, from clearing and 

grading to final clean-up and restoration. Additional factors that can affect the construction 

duration include the weather and extent to which tie-in crews are needed to return to an area to 

tie-in the pipeline sections (e.g., waterbody crossing). 

 The following subsections present a general description of the environmental inspection 

programs that the pipeline companies would implement during construction of the project, as well 

as company-specific descriptions of the construction procedures that they would use for their 

proposed project facilities. 

2.3.1 ENVIRONMENTAL INSPECTION

The sponsoring pipeline companies would incorporate environmental requirements in 

their construction documents and agreements with construction contractors, would conduct 

environmental training for construction workers, and would provide routine environmental 

monitoring during construction, cleanup, and restoration of the project. 

To monitor compliance with environmental requirements, each pipeline company would 

assign one or more environmental inspectors (EIs) to inspect construction activities for the 

purpose of monitoring, facilitating, and achieving environmental compliance with all permit 

conditions and requirements during construction. The EIs would be responsible for monitoring 

construction activities for compliance with the conditions of the Commission certificate and all 

other applicable federal, state, and local permits. The duties of the EIs include monitoring and 

reporting on activities such as erosion control, revegetation, wetland and waterbody crossings and 

signage, environmental permit compliance, threatened and endangered species protection, and 

fencing at environmentally sensitive sites. 

Before construction begins, the pipeline companies would conduct environmental 

training for the EIs to familiarize them with the specific conditions and issues for this project. 

Separate training of contractor personnel would also be performed to familiarize construction 

personnel with the environmental requirements of this project. 

The Commission also would assign monitors to inspect construction and restoration of 

the project. For larger projects with multiple spreads, the Commission typically assigns a team of 

two monitors during construction (and one inspector during restoration) to each of the longer 

spreads, or to two or three spreads if the spreads are shorter in length. The inspection frequency 

on each spread varies, but can be as often as every week during the early phases of construction, 

to once or twice a month during later phases of construction, to every month or 6 to 8 weeks 

during restoration. The frequency of inspections on each spread depends on the problems 

observed during previous inspections and the sensitivity of the resource being affected. For 

 
	





	

	
 

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 2.0 PROPOSED ACTION

2-28 

example, inspection frequency may increase on spreads where numerous problems have been 

identified, when sensitive waterbodies or wetlands are being crossed, or when landowners or 

regulatory agencies have identified concerns with construction or restoration. The duration of 

each inspection varies from 2 to 3 days to 1 week. 

 The Commission has also implemented a more reactive and comprehensive 

environmental inspection program, in which third-party environmental monitors (reporting 

directly to the FERC project manager) are assigned full-time (6 days a week, 10 hours a day) to 

specific spreads. The monitors would have limited authority to make field decisions about 

modifications to construction procedures that are defined in the terms of the third-party contract. 

Because of the magnitude and complexity of this project, we recommend:

• Each NE-07 Project applicant hire and fund a third-party contractor, to work 

under the direction of the Commission staff, for the sole purpose of monitoring 

compliance with the environmental conditions attached to the orders for their 

respective projects, including all measures proposed by the applicants. A draft 

monitoring program should be developed by the applicants and filed with the 

Commission for review and approval of the Director of Energy Projects (OEP), 

along with a proposal from potential contractors that would be available to 

provide the monitoring and reporting services. The monitoring program should 

include the following elements: 

a. the employment by the contractor of one to two full-time, on-site monitors 

per construction spread, plus additional monitors as warranted for 

construction at aboveground facilities; 

b. the employment by the contractor of a full-time compliance manager to 

direct and coordinate with the monitors, manage the reporting systems, and 

provide technical support to the Commission staff; 

c. a systematic strategy for the review and approval by the contract 

compliance manager and monitors of variance requests for certain 

construction activities as may be required, based on site-specific field 

conditions; 

d. the development of an Internet web site for the posting of daily or weekly 

inspection reports submitted by both the third-party monitors and each 

company’s environmental inspectors; and, 

e. a discussion of how the monitoring program could incorporate and/or be 

coordinated with the monitoring or reporting that may be required by other 

federal and state agencies. 

 The recommended third-party environmental monitors would be responsible for 

inspecting the project to ensure that it is being constructed in compliance with the environmental 

conditions of the Commission certificate issued for the project. They are not responsible for any 

permit requirements issued by other agencies unless this responsibility is agreed to as part of the 

overall environmental monitoring program in consultation with other federal and state agencies. 

2.3.2 PIPELINE CONSTRUCTION PROCEDURES

The pipeline and aboveground facilities would be designed, constructed, operated, and 

maintained in accordance with: 
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· U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) regulations in 49 CFR 192, 

"Transportation of Natural and Other Gas by Pipeline: Minimum Federal Safety 

Standards;" and 

· Title 18, CFR 380.15, "Siting and Maintenance Requirements." 

In addition, the applicants would implement the construction and restoration procedures 

identified our Upland Erosion Control, Revegetation, and Maintenance Plan (Plan) and Wetland 

and Waterbody Construction and Mitigation Procedures (Procedures) (see FERC website at 

www.ferc.gov/industries/gas/enviro/guidelines.asp). 

Millennium and Columbia have incorporated these procedures into their Environmental 

Construction Standards (ECS). The ECS can be found in Millennium’s original application filed 

August 1, 2005 through the FERC’s web site and eLibrary, as well as in the Appendix E1 of the 

DSEIS. In the Black Dirt Area in Orange County, Millennium would implement its Black Dirt 

Plan. 

Empire has incorporated our Plan and Procedures into its Erosion and Sedimentation 

Control and Agricultural Plan (ESCAMP). The ESCAMP can be found in Empire’s original 

application filed October 11, 2005 through the FERC’s eLibrary as well as in the Appendix E2 of 

the DSEIS. The ESCAMP also incorporates additional recommendations from the New York 

State Department of Agriculture and Markets (NYSDA&M) due to potential impact on 

agricultural areas (see section 4.2). 

 Algonquin has incorporated our Plan and Procedures into its Erosion and Sedimentation 

Control (E&SC) Plan. The E&SC can be found in Algonquin’s original application filed march 

1, 2006 through the FERC’s eLibrary, as well as in the Appendix E3 of the DSEIS. Algonquin 

has requested a few variances from our Plan and Procedures. These are described in sections 

4.2.3 and 4.7.3. 

 

 Iroquois has stated that it would construct its proposed facilities in a manner consistent 

with our Plan and Procedures. 

 We believe the proposed company- and project-specific environmental construction plans 

are adequate and if implemented properly would minimize construction impacts. 

2.3.2.1 General Overland Pipeline Construction Procedures 

 Typical pipeline construction proceeds as a moving assembly line. Most construction 

activities proceed along the pipeline corridor at an average rate of about 3,000 to 3,800 feet per 

day, although the rate will be highly variable due to terrain, congestion, and environmental 

constraints. The trench would not remain open for more than 30 days in any area, and there 

would typically be an additional 2 weeks between initial grading and trenching. So, typically, 

there would be no more than 44 days between initial grading and backfilling. 
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Right-of-Way Survey

Before the start of construction, land surveys would be finalized, the pipeline centerline 

and construction work space would be marked, and land or easement acquisition would be 

completed. If the necessary land or easements cannot be obtained through good faith negotiations 

with landowners and the project has been certificated by the Commission, the NE-07 Project 

applicants may use the right of eminent domain granted to it under section 7(h) of the NGA and 

the Rules of Civil Procedure to obtain a right-of-way. 

The construction work area (e.g., nominal construction right-of-way and extra work 

areas) would first be surveyed and staked. Existing utility lines and other sensitive resources, 

identified in easement agreements or by federal and state agencies, would be located and marked 

to prevent accidental damage during pipeline construction. Typically, the construction ROW 

would be a nominal 75 feet wide. In some areas, the construction ROW would overlap an 

adjacent ROW and this area would be used for excess spoil storage and as a travel way for lightduty vehicles. Landowners would generally be notified at least 5 days before the start of 

construction unless earlier notice is requested in the easement negotiations. If temporary or 

permanent bridges would be installed across waterbodies along the construction ROW or access 

roads, the applicant’s would need to coordinate with the COE and NYSDEC so that they are 

adequately sized and don’t restrict steam flow, and so that they area disturbed by their use is 

adequately restored when they are removed. 

Foreign pipelines and utilities would be identified during preliminary surveys. Prior to 

construction, contractors would contact the “Call Before You Dig” or “One Call” system to verify 

and mark all utilities along the project workspaces to minimize the potential for damage to other 

buried facilities in the area. Where there is a question as to the location of utilities, such as water, 

cable, gas, and sewer lines, they would be located by field instrumentation and test pits. 

Removal or Abandonment of Existing Pipeline

Some pipeline would be either abandoned would either be abandoned in place or by 

removal. Pipeline may be abandoned in place in areas such as highway, railroad, and waterbody 

crossings or where removal could result in adverse environmental impact. Where the pipe would 

be abandoned in place, the pipe would be emptied of all gas and cleaned using cleaning pigs to 

remove all foreign matter. The openings would then be capped and sealed before abandonment. 

There would be no disturbance of the existing ROW, except in areas where the pipeline is capped. 

Removal of the existing pipeline would involve excavating a trench over the old pipeline, 

removing the pipe. 

Some project components would involve replacing removed pipeline with a larger 

diameter pipeline by the lift and lay method or the same ditch replacement method. This would 

involve excavating a trench to remove the old pipe; widening and deepening the trench (as 

appropriate) for accommodate the new, larger diameter pipeline; and installing the replacement 

pipe in approximately the same location as the old pipe using the standard cross-country 

construction methods discussed below. Alternatively, the trench may be backfilled and 

compacted, and then retrenched for the installation of the new pipe. 

Where pipeline to be removed would cross major roadways, and is cased, the carrier pipe 

would be removed, and the casing pipe would be abandoned in place by capping, coating, and 

filling with appropriate material. At major road crossings where the carrier pipe is not cased, the 

carrier pipe would be abandoned in place in the same manner. 
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Clearing and Grading 

The construction work area would be cleared and graded to provide a relatively level 

surface for trench excavating equipment and a sufficiently wide work space for the passage of 

heavy construction equipment. Vegetation would be removed by mechanical cutting or by hand. 

Temporary erosion controls would be installed immediately after initial disturbance of the soils 

and would be maintained throughout construction. In upland areas, brush would be disposed of 

by piling adjacent to the construction work area, or it may be burned, or chipped and either given 

away, buried, or thinly spread across the right-of-way (less than 2 inches thick), depending on 

local ordinances and landowner agreements. 

Logs and other usable wood products would remain the property of the landowner and 

would not be used unless permission is granted in the easement agreement. Timber would be cut 

into even lengths and stockpiled adjacent to the construction work area. Tree stumps and large 

rocks, which have been excavated or blasted from the trench, would be disposed of as agreed with 

the landowner and may be buried within the construction work area, windrowed adjacent to the 

construction work area, or removed to an approved landfill. No brush, timber, stumps, or large 

rocks would be stockpiled or buried within 50 feet of streams, or in wetlands, agricultural, or 

residential areas. No chips would be spread over wetlands or waterbodies. 

In agricultural areas, up to 12 inches of topsoil would be stripped from the construction 

work area in annually cultivated or rotated agricultural land, in idle or fallow fields (improved 

pasture)6

, and where requested by the landowner during easement negotiations. In areas 

maintained as residential lawns or yards, up to 12 inches of topsoil would be stripped from the 

construction work area. In wetlands without standing water or saturated soils, the top 12 inches 

of soil would be conserved from graded areas and the trench. 

Additional grading may be required in areas where the pipeline runs up and down steep 

slopes. Steep slopes often need to be flattened to accommodate to the bending limitations of the 

pipe. In such areas, the slopes would be cut away, and, after the pipeline is installed, 

reconstructed to their original contours during excavation. 

In areas where the pipeline would run laterally along the side of a slope, additional 

grading may also be required. Generally, on steep side slopes, soil from the high side of the 

ROW would be moved to the low side of the ROW to create a safe and level terrace. This is 

called side-hill construction or two-toning. After the pipeline is installed, the soil from the low 

side of the ROW would be returned to the high side, and the slope’s original contours would be 

restored. 

Trenching

The trench would be excavated to a depth sufficient to provide the minimum cover 

required by USDOT specifications. Typically, the trench would be about 6 feet deep, to allow for 

about 3 feet of cover, about 6 to 8 feet wide in stable soils and rock, and up to 12 feet wide at the 

top in sandy and saturated soils. Trench breakers or barriers to slow the movement of water along 

the trench would be installed as needed in accordance with each applicant’s environmental 

construction standards. In agricultural areas, depth of cover would be increased to 4 feet and 

would be at least 1 foot below existing drainage tile. All excavated soil would be temporarily 

 

6

 Pasture from which crops or hay could be harvested. 
 2.0 PROPOSED ACTION

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stored on the non-working side of the right-of-way. Generally, the trench would not remain open 

for more than 30 days, except at hydrostatic test locations. The trench would generally not be 

excavated until the pipe is strung down the ROW, and would be backfilled immediately at the 

crossings of waterbodies, roads that are open cut, residential areas, and trails. Where access 

across the trench is required, trench plugs or steel plates would be installed to permit safe 

crossing for livestock, vehicles, equipment, or people. Fencing would also be installed at the 

access points to the crossovers to prevent entry into the trench. 

In areas where mechanical equipment cannot break up and loosen the bedrock, blasting 

would be required. All blasting would be conducted only during daylight hours and in 

accordance with applicable Federal, state, and local laws, permits, and authorizations. 

Landowners would be provided one week prior notice, with at least 24 hours confirming notice, 

before blasting. With the landowner’s approval, pre- and post-blasting inspections would be 

conducted at all residential or commercial structures, utilities, or water wells and springs within 

150 feet of blasting. Pipeline construction often involves crossing or other utilities. All affected 

utility owners would be contacted and advised of the schedule for crossing their facilities. An 

inspector from the utility may be present during construction across the utility line. Generally, 

excavated rock would be used to backfill the trench to the top of the existing bedrock profile, 

except in agricultural land where specific depths of cover over excavated rock material would 

apply. Large rock not suitable for use as backfill material would either be windrowed along the 

edge of the right-of-way or buried within the extra work space with the landowner’s permission, 

or hauled off the ROW and disposed of in an approved disposal area. 

Dewatering 

 During periods of excessive precipitation or high water table the excavated trench may 

collect water and may need to be dewatered. This would be done in accordance our Plan and 

Procedures. Under no circumstances would heavily silt-laden water be discharged from the 

trench directly into wetlands or waterbodies. To the extent possible, discharges would occur in 

well-vegetated upland areas on stable, non-erosive surfaces. If dewatering/discharge activities 

must be located off-ROW, locations would be chosen that would minimize off-ROW impacts and 

impacts to sensitive resources. Water would often be discharged into an energy dissipating 

devise (e.g., straw bale structure/silt fencing surrounding a silt bag), or by reducing pumping 

rates, to minimize off-ROW impacts. 

Pipe Stringing, Bending, and Welding

The pipe would be strung along the ROW and individual sections of pipe would be bent 

where necessary to fit the contours of the trench, aligned, welded together into long strings, and 

placed on temporary supports along the edge of the trench. All welds would be x-rayed to insure 

structural integrity and compliance with the requirements established by the American Petroleum 

Institute Standard 1104, American Society of Mechanical Engineers, and American Petroleum 

Institute standards. Those welds that do not meet established specifications would be repaired or 

removed. Once the welds are approved, the welded joints would be coated with a protective 

coating equal to the rest of the pipeline to protect the pipeline from corrosion. 
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Pipe Coating, Inspection and Repair 

Pipeline used for interstate transport of natural gas is typically coated to protect it from 

the environment and accelerated degradation. Using coated pipeline is the modern standard. Pipe 

is normally mill-coated or yard-coated prior to stringing. However, the pipeline also would 

require a coating in the field at the welded joints where bare metal has been exposed. Prior to 

lowering-in the pipeline segment into the trench, the pipeline coating would be visually and 

electronically inspected to locate and repair coating faults or voids; this is commonly referred to 

as “jeeping” the pipe. 

Lowering In and Backfilling

The trench would be dewatered, cleaned of debris, and padded as necessary before the 

pipeline is lowered into the trench. Trench barriers and breakers would be installed before 

backfilling to prevent water movement along the pipeline. The trench would then be backfilled 

using the excavated materials. If the excavated material is rocky, the pipeline would be padded 

with select fill from commercial borrow areas or by separating suitable material from the existing 

trench spoil. No topsoil would be used for pipeline padding. After the trench is backfilled and 

the pipeline is hydrostatically tested, the pipeline would be cleaned of any dirt, water, or debris by 

pipeline "pigs" which are propelled through the pipeline. 

Tie-In Crews 

 Tie-in crews are self-sufficient crews that work in tandem with the construction spread. 

They have equipment, welders, and labor to perform a specialized task (e.g., waterbody/wetland 

crossing, road crossing). Tie-in crews would be used in areas that would normally slow-down the 

main spread or in locations where construction has been skipped due to lack of access. 

Hydrostatic Testing

After backfill and cleaning, each segment of the pipeline would be hydrostatically tested 

according to USDOT specifications with water obtained from nearby surface waters or available 

municipal supplies. Test water would be pumped into each test section, pressurized to design test 

pressure, and maintained at that pressure for about 8 hours. Leaks would be repaired, and the 

pipeline would then be retested until the specifications are met. After testing a segment, the water 

may be pumped into the next test segment or discharged in one of the following ways: through 

an energy dissipater and erosion control devices off right-of-way, back into the source waterbody 

through an aeration type energy dissipater, or into a transport trailer tank to be disposed of in 

compliance with each applicant’s National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) 

permit. 

The pipeline would be internally inspected after testing to detect whether dents or other 

damage occurred during construction. If the pipeline fails the hydrostatic test, or if damage to the 

pipeline was detected during the in-line tool inspection, it would be exposed, repaired, and 

retested as needed. 
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Cleanup and Restoration

Within 20 days of backfilling, weather and soil conditions permitting, all work areas 

would be final graded and restored to preconstruction contours as closely as possible. To 

minimize future settling, the trench would either be crowned (with landowner permission) or 

compacted with tracked construction equipment. Surplus construction material and debris would 

be removed and disposed of at appropriate sites. Initially, subsoil would be ripped to help 

alleviate compaction in agricultural areas and the topsoil would be returned to its original 

horizon. Permanent erosion controls (waterbars or slope breakers) would be installed within the 

right-of-way, except in agricultural and pasture land where the landowner has not consented to 

their installation. 

Restoration would begin within 6 days of final grading, weather and soil conditions 

permitting, and the construction work areas would be fertilized and seeded with appropriate seed 

mixes. Private property such as fences, gates, and driveways would be restored to a condition 

equal to or better than preconstruction condition, and pipeline markers and warning signs would 

be installed at roads as required. In areas of new right-of-way, off-road vehicle control (trees, 

slash and timber barriers, gates, and fencing) would be installed as agreed with each landowner or 

land manager. Special considerations would be given to lawns, yards, road crossings, stream 

crossings, and sensitive environmental sites. 

 The construction work area would be regraded to match the grade of areas outside of the 

construction work area, and special features noted in the pre-construction survey would be 

restored. Surveyed contours for major waterbody crossings would be used to assist in restoring 

these construction work areas. However, some slopes and bluffs cannot be restored to their 

original contours. Appropriate erosion controls, such as water diversion bars, would be installed 

at appropriate locations to address this change and minimize potential erosion problems. 

Post Construction Monitoring

All areas disturbed by construction would be monitored until the ROW surface conditions 

are similar to the adjacent undisturbed land and all temporary erosion control devices are 

removed. Agricultural areas would be monitored for at least 2 years (and the black dirt area for 5 

years) for loss in crop productivity, soil settling, excessive soil compaction, excessive rocks, and 

excessive wetness. Other upland areas would be monitored for at least two full growing seasons. 

Upland revegetation would be considered successful when the density and cover of non-nuisance 

vegetation on the disturbed right-of-way are similar to the density and cover off the right-of-way. 

In accordance with our Procedures, wetlands would be monitored for 3 to 5 years for the 

reestablishment of wetland vegetation. Revegetation would be considered successful when the 

cover of native herbaceous and/or woody species is at least 80 percent of the total area and the 

diversity of native species is at least 50 percent of the diversity originally found in the wetland. 

The NE-07 Project applicants would repair and correct any areas where restoration and 

revegetation is not successful. The COE will require a mitigation plan for the project as part of 

its permit. As part of the mitigation plan, the applicants would consult with the COE and 

NYSDEC to develop a time period for monitoring wetland mitigation activities. 

2.3.2.2 Waterbodies 

Prior to construction, temporary bridges would be constructed across most minor and 

intermediate waterbodies to allow construction equipment to cross. Construction equipment 

would be required to use the bridges, except the clearing crew who would be allowed one pass 
 2.0 PROPOSED ACTION

2-35 

through the waterbodies before the bridges are installed. Bridges and supports would be removed 

immediately after restoration is complete. If bridges are not installed at state-designated fishery 

streams, equipment would be required to move around the waterbodies to gain access to the other 

side. 

In general, equipment refueling and lubricating would take place in upland areas more 

than 100 feet from the edges of streams and rivers and their associated wetlands. There may be 

certain instances where equipment refueling and lubrication may be necessary in or near streams 

and rivers. For example, stationary equipment, such as water pumps for hydrostatic test water, 

may need to be operated continuously on the banks of waterbodies and may require refueling in 

place. Each applicant’s SPCC Plan addresses the handling of fuel and other potentially hazardous 

materials in or within 100 feet of waterbodies. 

 

Clearing would involve the removal of trees and brush from the construction ROW and 

ATWS. Woody vegetation would be cleared to the edge of the waterbodies, but a 50-foot-long 

herbaceous strip would be left on the approaches until immediately before construction to provide 

a natural sediment filter and minimize the potential for erosion immediately adjacent to the 

waterbodies. Initial grading of the herbaceous strip would be limited to the extent needed to 

install bridges. 

During clearing, sediment barriers would be installed adjacent to waterbodies and within 

ATWS to minimize the potential for sediment runoff. These would be maintained during the 

construction period and until restoration is adequate. Silt fence and/or staked straw bales would 

be installed across the full width of the construction ROW immediately after clearing. Silt fence 

or straw bales placed across the working side of the ROW would be removed during the day 

when vehicle traffic is present and would be replaced each night. Alternatively, drivable berms 

may be installed and maintained across the ROW in lieu of silt fence or straw bales. 

To minimize the possibility of construction interfering with fish migration and spawning, 

in-stream construction in coldwater fisheries would occur between June 1 and September 30, and 

in coolwater and warmwater fisheries considered significant by the state, between June 1 and 

November 30. Other time windows may be used if permitted or required by federal or state 

agencies. 

Construction across rivers and streams would be accomplished by either trenching across 

the waterbody (open-cut crossing or wet trench) or using “dry crossing” construction techniques. 

An open-cut crossing involves trenching and installing the pipe directly across the stream flow. 

Proposed dry crossing techniques include directional drilling under wide waterbodies, 

conventional bore, a dam and pump (pumping the water flow around the trench by installing 

dams upstream and downstream of the crossing), or a flumed crossing (directing the water flow 

through flumes and excavating the trench and installing the pipe under the flumes). 

Dam and Pump Crossing Method

The dam and pump crossing method involves constructing temporary sand or pea gravel 

bag dams upstream and downstream of the proposed crossing site while using a high capacity 

pump to divert water from the upstream side around the construction area to the downstream side. 

Energy dissipation devices, such as plywood boards would be placed on the downstream side at 

the discharge point to prevent streambed scour. 
 2.0 PROPOSED ACTION

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After installing the dams and commencing pumping, a portable pump (separate from that 

pumping the stream flow around the construction area) may be used to pump standing water from 

between the dams into a dewatering structure consisting of straw bales/silt fence or into a 

geotextile filter bag located away from the stream banks, thereby creating a “dry” construction 

area. 

Once the area between the dams is stable, backhoes located on both banks would 

excavate a trench across the stream. Spoil excavated from the trench would be stored in a straw 

bale/silt fence containment area located a minimum of 10 feet from the edge of the stream banks. 

Leakage from the dam, or subsurface flow from below the stream bed, may cause water to 

accumulate in the trench. As water accumulates in the trench, it may be periodically pumped out 

and discharged into a dewatering structure located away from the stream banks. 

After trenching across the stream bed is complete, a prefabricated segment of pipe would 

be installed in the trench. The streambed portion of the trench would be immediately backfilled 

with stream bed spoil. Clean gravel or native cobbles would be used to backfill the top 12 inches 

of the trench in all coldwater fisheries. Once restoration of the streambed is complete, the dams 

would be removed and normal flow would be re-established in the stream. 

Flume Crossing Method

The flume crossing method involves diverting the flow of the stream across the 

construction site through one or more flume pipes placed in the stream. The first step in the 

flume crossing method involves placing a sufficient number of adequately sized flume pipes in 

the stream to accommodate the highest anticipated flow during construction. After placing the 

pipes in the stream, sand or pea gravel bags would be placed in the stream upstream and 

downstream of the proposed trench. The bags would serve to dam the stream and divert the 

stream flow through the flume pipes, thereby isolating the stream flow from the construction area. 

This type of construction may be accomplished by using a coffer dam and flume and may be 

referred to as a type of dry ditch construction. 

Backhoes located on both banks of the stream would excavate a trench under the flume 

pipe in the isolated stream bed. Spoil excavated from the stream trench would be placed or stored 

a minimum of 10 feet from the edge of the waterbody for temporary storage. Once the trench is 

excavated, a prefabricated segment of pipe would be installed beneath the flume pipes. The 

trench would then be backfilled with native spoil from the stream bed. Clean gravel or native 

cobbles would be used to backfill the top 12 inches of the trench in coldwater fisheries. 

If trench dewatering is necessary near waterbodies, the trench water would be discharged 

into an energy dissipation/sediment filtration device, such as geotextile filter bag or straw bale 

structure, away from the water’s edge to prevent heavily silt-laden water from flowing into the 

waterbody. 

Open Cut or Wet Trench Crossing Method

This method would involve trenching through a stream while water continues to flow. 

After clearing the stream approaches and installing sediment control measures, track hoes would 

excavate a trench in the flowing stream from both banks of the waterbody. Spoil excavated from 

the trench would be placed a minimum of 10 feet from the edge of the waterbody for temporary 

storage. Earthen trench plugs would be left in place on both banks of the waterbody until 

immediately before pipe installation to separate the river trench from the upland trench. Trench 
 2.0 PROPOSED ACTION

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plugs prevent muddy water that accumulates in the upland trench from flowing into the stream 

trench. 

Once the trench is excavated, a prefabricated segment of pipe would be installed in the 

trench. The trench would then be backfilled with native streambed spoil. 

Horizontal Directional Drill (HDD)

 A horizontal directional drill (HDD) would involve drilling a pilot hole underneath the 

waterbody and then enlarging that hole until the hole is large enough to accommodate the pipe. 

Pipe sections would be staged and welded along the right-of-way and then pulled through the 

drilled hole. Because the pipe must be pulled down and through this hole, bending naturally to fit 

the contour of the hole, this technique is not effective for minor streams and is usually only used 

for wider waterbody crossings, where geologic conditions are acceptable. 

Completed stream crossings using the wet trench, flume, or dam and pump techniques 

would be stabilized within 24 hours of backfilling. Original stream bed and bank contours would 

be re-established, and mulch, jute thatching, or bonded fiber blankets would be installed on the 

stream banks. Where the flume technique is used, stream banks would be stabilized before 

removing the flume pipes and returning flow to the waterbody channel. 

Seeding of disturbed stream approaches would be completed in accordance with our Plan 

and Procedures after final grading, weather and soil conditions permitting. Where necessary, 

slope breakers would be installed adjacent to stream banks to minimize the potential for erosion. 

Sediment barriers, such as silt fence and/or straw bales would be maintained across the ROW 

until permanent vegetation is established. Temporary equipment bridges would be removed 

following construction. 

2.3.2.3 Wetlands 

In general, the method of pipeline construction and the required construction ROW width 

in wetlands would depend upon the soil stability and existing conditions in the wetland. Stable 

temporary work surfaces may be constructed in wetlands where soils are saturated and unstable. 

Installing timber rip-rap or construction mats in the travel lane are typical methods of 

stabilization. Typically, temporary extra workspaces would be located a minimum of 50 feet 

from the edge of designated wetlands. If a riparian wetland is located adjacent to a waterbody, 

extra workspace may be requested and placed in the wetland. Within wetlands, vegetation would 

be cut to ground level except over the trench. Grading and stump removal would be performed 

over the trench except where safety conditions dictate additional removal on the working side of 

the ROW. 

The construction procedures used to cross unsaturated wetlands would be similar to those 

used on dry land areas. Topsoil would be segregated in unsaturated wetlands in a manner similar 

to that used in agricultural lands. Temporary trench plugs may be left in the ditchline at the edge 

of the wetland if there is a significant possibility of water flowing down the ditch and into the 

wetland. The temporary trench plugs would minimize the discharge of sediment into the wetland 

from the upland ditch. Silt fences and/or straw bales would be installed at edges of the 

construction ROW in wetlands where there is a possibility for spoil to flow into undisturbed areas 

of the wetlands. Original topographic conditions and contours would be restored after completion 

of construction. 
 2.0 PROPOSED ACTION

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Construction techniques in highly saturated areas may involve the “push” or “pull” 

construction technique. These techniques involve floating a prefabricated pipe section in the 

water-filled trench and either pushing or pulling it across the saturated wetland area. With this 

method, the trench would be made with a backhoe, dragline, clamshell dredge or a combination 

of this equipment. The push and pull sites, the pipe storage sites, and fabricating areas would be 

located outside the saturated portion of the wetland. Floats would be attached to the pipe to 

achieve positive buoyancy. After the pipe is floated into place, the floats would be removed and 

the pipe, which has lost its buoyancy, would settle to the bottom of the trench. This operation 

would be repeated as necessary until the wetland crossing is complete. Excavated material would 

be used as backfill and placed over the pipe to fill in the trench and the original contours of the 

wetland are re-established. 

Construction across drier wetlands would be accomplished by conventional pipeline 

construction techniques. In saturated wetlands, the push-pull method would be used. This 

involves assembling the pipeline in an upland area, pushing/pulling it along the flooded trench 

through the wetland, and then lowering it into the trench. Mats or timber riprap would be used to 

stabilize the travel lane for passage of construction equipment. Wetlands, with standing water or 

saturated soils, would be constructed separately to minimize the duration of construction 

disturbance. To minimize wetland impacts, the companies would implement the procedures 

described in their environmental construction plans which are consistent with our Procedures.

2.3.2.4 Residential Areas 

Construction within 50 feet of a residence would be accomplished by conventional 

pipeline, stove-pipe, or drag-section construction techniques. For stove-pipe construction, a short 

section of trench is dug, a section of pipe is laid and welded into place, and that section of the 

trench is backfilled immediately. It is generally best suited for situations where the available 

workspace is limited. For drag-section construction, a separate work space is required for 

prefabrication of short pipeline segments consisting of several sections of pipe. Once the trench 

has been dug, the prefabricated pipeline segments are moved into place, laid in the trench, welded 

into place, and the trench is backfilled. Restoration in residential areas should begin immediately 

after backfilling. Both techniques limit the amount of land required for construction and the time 

the trench is left open in the vicinity of the affected residences. 

The applicant’s would make every effort to ensure that construction activities would 

minimize impacts to residences and residential areas and that cleanup would be quick and 

thorough. The duration of an open trench would be minimized to the contractors working hours 

for a distance of 100 feet on either side of a nearby residence. 

Homeowners would be notified in advance of construction activities and any scheduled 

disruption of household utilities. Disruptions would be minimized to the extent possible. If 

access to a residence is disrupted, typically the applicant would offer to temporarily relocate the 

landowner to other accommodations and provide a meal allowance. The applicants would 

attempt to leave mature trees and landscaping intact within the temporary construction ROW 

unless the trees and landscaping interfere with the installation techniques or present unsafe 

working conditions. Fences, mailboxes, and other structures that have been removed would be 

restored. Sidewalks, driveways, and roads would be restored as soon as practical. 
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2.3.2.5 Roads, Highways, and Railroads 

 Construction across roads, highways, and railroads would be in accordance with 

requirements of applicable permits or approvals. Railroads, highways, and most paved roads 

would be crossed by boring underneath the crossing (bored crossing) and installing the pipe 

within a casing if required by the permitting authority. 

A bore requires excavating pits on both sides of the road or waterbody at the depth of the 

pipeline and boring a hole large enough for the diameter of the pipe or casing, if required. The 

depth of the pits depends on topography and the depth required to cross under the road or 

waterbody, but is usually at least 10 feet deep. A boring machine would be lowered into the bore 

pit and a casing advanced through the soil with an auger that removes soil from within the casing. 

Spoil would be removed from the bore pit, and excess spoil typically would be hauled off site for 

disposal. Once the casing is in place, the pipe would be placed through the casing. If additional 

pipe sections are required, they are usually welded to the first section of pipe in the bore pit 

before being pushed through the bore hole. When the pipe is in place, the casing would be 

removed, the pipe welded to the adjacent pipe sections, and the pits would be filled in and 

restored. 

 

There would be little or no disruption of traffic on roads that are bored. Other roads and 

driveways may be crossed by trenching across the road (open-cut crossing). Any open trenches 

would be either fenced off or covered with steel plates during non-working hours. 

2.3.2.6 Corrosion Protection and Detection Systems 

Corrosion prevention and detection systems would be installed and would meet the 

USDOT requirements for protection of metallic facilities from external, internal, and atmospheric 

corrosion. These systems would be routinely monitored by survey crews as part of ongoing 

pipeline integrity programs. Cathodic protection may be supplied primarily by conventional 

groundbeds on private land remote from the pipeline and permanent ROW and may be 

supplemented at some locations with sacrificial anodes attached to the pipe. 

Generally, remote conventional ground beds would be installed a minimum of 500 feet 

from the pipeline, and anodes would be installed perpendicular to the pipeline. The ground bed 

would affect an area 500 feet long by 50 feet wide in which a 2-foot-deep by 1-foot-wide trench 

would be excavated along the length of the ground bed. The anodes would be installed in 12-

inch-diameter by 20-foot-deep vertical holes adjacent to the trench. After installation, the area 

would be backfilled and marked to prevent damage. Deep well anodes could also be installed 

using a 10-inch-diameter well drilled a minimum of 50 feet below the surface and connecting to a 

surface junction box. This would require an approximate 100-foot by 50-foot area that is 

perpendicular to the right-of-way and protected by a permanent fence. 

The anode beds would be constructed at about the same time as the pipeline and are 

designed for the life of the facility. For a coated pipeline, the anode beds would be spaced many 

miles apart depending on the results of the cathodic protection survey. The cathodic protection 

system would be monitored, and anode beds would be replaced when or if they become depleted 

due to changed field conditions. 

 The low voltage direct current used in a cathodic protection system would have no effect 

on other metallic facilities near the pipeline. The path of the circuit is primarily from the anode 

bed through the earth to the pipeline, and back along the pipeline to the anode bed. There would 
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be no magnetic fields set up in the area. There are no known health hazards associated with 

cathodic protection. 

2.3.2.7 Blasting 

 Blasting may be necessary in areas with shallow depth to bedrock. Where blasting is the 

selected method to remove shallow bedrock, the work would be performed by licensed 

contractors using appropriate safety precautions. Additional information on blasting procedures 

is presented in section 4.1. 

2.3.3 MILLENNIUM PIPELINE PROJECT PHASE I 

2.3.3.1 General Pipeline Construction Procedures 

Millennium would use the general pipeline construction procedures described in sections 

2.3.2. which would be consistent with those previously approved by the Commission for the 

Millennium Pipeline Project in the Interim and Millennium Orders, except as specifically 

requested for or modified by the Phase I amendment. 

Lift and Lay 

 Millennium would use the lift and lay construction method to install most of the pipeline 

between MPs 285.6 and 376.4. In this area, Millennium would remove Columbia’s existing Line 

A-5 pipeline and install its new 30-inch-diameter pipeline. Within this lift and lay section, 

approximately 7.1 miles of the existing Line A-5 consists of 24-inch-diameter pipeline (from MP 

340.3 to 347.87), would be retained and incorporated into the new Millennium system. 

2.3.3.2 Special Construction Techniques 

As a result of detailed engineering and constructability reviews, Millennium proposes to 

modify the construction procedures for crossing Owego Creek, Nanticoke Creek, Susquehanna 

River, West Branch Delaware River, East Branch Delaware River, Wallkill River, and Pochuck 

Creek. Most of these changes to the construction procedures involve the substitution of a type of 

dry-ditch crossing method over the method identified previously. Millennium proposes to 

construct the majority of crossings using the dam and flume technique, as opposed to the dam and 

pump technique previously proposed/approved for this project. Millennium states that 

improvements in temporary dam technology have occurred in the industry and have convinced 

Millennium that the use of dam and flume crossing techniques would provide a more reliable 

method of constructing minor- to intermediate-size waterbody crossings than depending on 

pumping to move stream flows around construction sites. Contingency plans and site-specific 

drawings for the Susquehanna River, Chenango River, and West Branch Delaware River have 

also been provided for our review and are discussed in section 4.3.2.2. Millennium has discussed 

the proposed modified construction methods for these waterbodies with the NYSDEC, COE, 

FWS, TNC, and Trout Unlimited. 

 

7

 All of the existing pipe within this 7.1-mile-long section consists of 24-inch-diameter pipe, except 

for a 0.2-mile-long section of 10-inch-diameter pipe that extends beneath Interstate 84. Millennium would 

replace this 0.2-mile-long section with new 24-inch-diameter pipe. 
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Powerlines

 The proposed NYSEG route variations would be constructed adjacent to or within 

powerline ROWs. Safety and design considerations for construction under or near powerlines are 

addressed in 29 CFR 1910.269 (Electric Power Generation, Transmission and Distribution), 

1926.950-960 (Power Transmission and Distribution), 1926.416 (Electrical Safety Related 

Practices), and 1926.550 (Cranes and Derricks) and in state regulations including the 

Consolidated Laws of New York Labor section 202-h (“High-Voltage Proximity Act”), 

Compilation of Codes, Rules and Regulations of the State of New York Title 16, section 25.467 

(relating to external corrosion control and electrical isolation),Title 16, section 127.1 (relating to 

allowable induced voltages in pipelines), Title 12, section 23-1.13 (electrical hazards), and Title 

12, section 23-9.6(e)(7) (aerial baskets). These regulations establish safe clearances for 

equipment and personnel working near powerlines as well as precautionary actions that must be 

taken to protect equipment and personnel from electric shock. In addition to state regulations, the 

powerline company may want Millennium to use additional precautions to minimize the potential 

for damage to the powerline structures and associated facilities, and possible power outages. 

 Consultation with NYSEG, and consideration of the sited regulations, resulted in 

NYSEG’s request that the pipeline be installed at least 55 feet from any grounded NYSEG 

powerline structure. 

Although construction techniques would not significantly differ from those described 

above, additional special construction, maintenance, and operating procedures would be 

implemented to minimize risk to workers, the pipeline, and the powerline. These procedures can 

include specialized training for workers, maintaining minimum distances between power 

structures and lines, providing grounding equipment on all construction vehicles, and additional 

monitoring of construction equipment operating within powerline ROWs. These procedures 

would be developed between Millennium and the affected powerline company. 

 

2.3.3.3 Aboveground Facility Construction Procedures 

 Construction activities at the proposed Corning Compressor Station site would include 

grading; installing concrete foundations; erecting metal buildings; and installing compressors, 

metering facilities, and appurtenances. Initial work at the compressor station would focus on 

preparing foundations for the buildings and equipment. Building foundations and pipe trenches 

would be excavated with standard construction earthmoving equipment. Millennium does not 

anticipate that blasting would be required at this site. Following foundation work, station 

equipment and buildings would be brought to the site and installed, using any necessary trailers or 

cranes for delivery and installation. Following installation of the buildings and primary facilities, 

associated equipment, piping, and electrical systems would be installed. Necessary equipment 

testing and start-up activities would occur on a concurrent basis. 

 Similarly, work at the new Corning M&R Station would require the installation of 

supports and piping, including the actual metering facility, as well as construction of an 850-foot 

long permanent driveway to the facility from an existing gravel road. 

 Final cleanup at the Corning Compressor Station and new M&R station would include 

establishment of final grade and application of gravel to provide a safe working surface for 

operation personnel. All surplus materials and construction debris would be removed, and the 

compressor station and meter station would be fenced with security fencing. All disturbed areas 
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not required for operation at the compressor station and new meter site would be properly 

reclaimed, including spreading of any salvaged topsoil and reseeding using an approved seed 

mix. 

 

 Millennium would modify the existing facilities at the Ramapo M&R Station and the 

existing M&R station at the interconnection of Columbia Line K and Line A-5 (and which would 

be renamed the Wagoner M&R Station). No new access roads would be required for these 

facilities. 

2.3.4 EMPIRE CONNECTOR PROJECT 

2.3.4.1 General Pipeline Construction Procedures 

Empire would use the pipeline construction procedures described in section 2.3.2 which 

would be consistent with our Plan and Procedures. Empire’s general pipeline construction 

procedures are described in its ESCAMP which also incorporated the additional 

recommendations of the NYSDA&M due to potential impact on agricultural areas (see section 

4.2). 

2.3.4.2 Special Construction Techniques 

In addition to the standard construction practices listed above, Empire would use the 

following special construction methods in certain areas during construction. 

Lift and Lay 

 The initial 1.4 miles of the proposed pipeline would involve removing a portion of the 

existing Empire State Pipeline and replacing it with a new pipeline in the existing ROW. This 

portion of the pipeline construction would likely be completed using a tie-in crew or mini-spread, 

which is a self-sufficient crew of equipment, welders, and labor needed to complete this activity. 

The execution of this work would coincide with planned natural gas supply outages to 

accommodate existing downstream customers. 

Agricultural Crossings 

Empire states that it has selected its proposed pipeline route to avoid, to the extent 

feasible, sensitive soils that are of high agricultural value. Empire has initiated inquiries with 

landowners and agricultural agents to determine the locations and configuration of drain tiles and 

other important features (diversion ditches, etc.) to avoid or accommodate during construction. 

It has modified its route through affected agricultural land to minimize impacts to drain tiles and, 

therefore, the impact of its project agricultural resources. Further, Empire has engaged an 

agricultural/drainage specialist to review the route within agricultural properties. Empire would 

continue to work actively with landowners to identify site conditions (i.e., to include drain tiles 

and header systems) crossed by pipeline facilities so that impacts and disruptions can be 

minimized. Empire would segregate and restore topsoil consistent with its ESCAMP and 

guidance provided by NYSDAM. Additionally, Empire would continue to locate drain tiles in 

affected agricultural fields during constriction and would repair those that are disturbed by 

construction, to as-found condition or better. Section 4.2 (Soils) and Empire’s ESCAMP provide 

more detail regarding Empire’s proposed construction techniques and impact minimization 

measures in agricultural areas. 
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Trenchless Techniques 

Trenchless construction techniques include: boring, pipe-jacking, and HDD. Trenchless 

methods allow the installation of the pipeline with minimal impacts or disturbance to surficial 

features. Boring techniques are regularly used when crossing transportation corridors that cannot 

be disrupted (e.g., roadways, railroads). HDDs may be used when trenching is not feasible or 

permissible, and re-routing alternatives are limited. Empire anticipates using bores for road and 

railroad crossings except where an open-cut crossing is determined to be feasible and the roadway 

authority approves (e.g. town, county). HDDs are planned for two waterbody crossing locations: 

Keuka Outlet and Canandaigua Outlet. A discussion of the HDDs at these locations is included 

in section 4.3.2.3. See figures 1.4-2 and 1.4-3 in Empire’s ESCAMP for typical layouts of a 

HDD crossing and a bore crossing. 

2.3.4.3 Aboveground Facility Construction Procedures 

Empire proposes constructing several aboveground facilities, including one compressor 

station, one pressure reduction station (at the upstream interconnect to the existing Empire State 

Pipeline), one metering and flow control facility (at the downstream interconnect to the Columbia 

Corning Compressor Station), and seven mainline valve facilities. Empire’s construction 

procedures for aboveground facilities are discussed in the following paragraphs. 

Empire would clear and grade the proposed aboveground facility locations to the extent 

necessary to install the facility and provide a level platform and sufficient space to execute the 

work safely. Empire would use onsite material as structural backfill where permitted by 

engineering specifications. When necessary, Empire would use clean imported structural backfill 

material if a sufficient amount of onsite material is not available. 

Empire would design foundations primarily of reinforced concrete with an appropriate 

strength rating to support planned loads. Concrete pours would be randomly sampled to verify 

compliance with minimum strength requirements. Empire would not construct concrete 

foundations for its proposed mainline valve locations; instead, they would have prepared 

gravel/rock surfacing. The identified equipment for the proposed aboveground facilities would 

be delivered by truck. Empire would offload and position, level, grout, and secure the equipment 

with anchor bolts as necessary and according to equipment specifications. Equipment installation 

would include the inspecting mechanical and electrical systems, other inspecting (i.e., both visual 

and radiographic) as may be applicable, painting, and finishing. 

Empire would restore the areas temporarily disturbed by construction activities to preexisting conditions or better. Some site modifications (e.g. re-contouring) may be required to 

provide sufficient drainage and site access. 

 

2.3.5 ALGONQUIN RAMAPO EXPANSION PROJECT

 

2.3.5.1 General Pipeline Construction Procedures 

Algonquin would use the pipeline construction procedures described in section 2.3.2 

which would be consistent with our Plan and Procedures and are described in its E&SCP. 
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However, Algonquin has requested variances8 from these documents. These are addressed in 

sections 4.2.3 and 4.7.3. No active croplands would be crossed by Algonquin’s project facilities. 

Lift and Lay 

Algonquin would excavate and raise the existing 26-inch-diameter pipeline from the 

trench, cut it into manageable lengths, and remove it from the ROW for disposal. The used pipe 

would be shipped to Algonquin’s Holliston pipe yard located in Holliston, Massachusetts, for 

storage prior to disposal. The trench would be enlarged in depth and width to accommodate the 

new 42-inch-diameter pipeline. The trench would be backfilled and the area restored in a manner 

consistent with the construction procedures described in section 2.3.2.1. This construction 

technique would be used along the pipeline replacement portion of the project. 

2.3.5.2 Special Construction Techniques 

Streams and Rivers 

Algonquin is currently evaluating available construction methods to effectively perform 

the pipeline replacement at the Mahwah River crossing. This evaluation includes consultations 

with the NYSDEC and the COE. Once a preferred crossing technique has been selected, 

Algonquin would provide this supplemental construction information to the Commission. (See 

section 4.3.2.4.) 

In particular, Algonquin is evaluating (1) a pipeline crossing/replacement of the Mahwah 

River, and (2) Algonquin intends to utilize a temporary bridge across the Mahwah River at 

temporary access road AMP 0.11 for heavy equipment access to Algonquin's existing Ramapo 

M&R Station 202. The temporary bridge crossing is to be permitted and constructed by 

Millennium/Columbia, as proposed in their respective filings. 

In general, Algonquin proposes construct waterbody crossings in a manner consistent 

with the procedures described in section 2.3.2.2 and would use of additional temporary work 

spaces (ATWS) on both sides of waterbodies to stage construction, fabricate the pipeline, and to 

store materials. ATWS would be located in upland areas a minimum of 50 feet from the 

waterbody edge. However, Algonquin states that there would likely be some locations where 

workspaces would need to be situated less than 50 feet from a waterbody or even within a 

waterbody or wetland. Algonquin has requested a variance from our Procedures at specific 

locations which would allow it to place ATWS less than 50 feet from these resources. We have 

addressed this issue in section 4.3.3. 

Wetlands 

Wetland construction would be done in accordance with our Procedures and as described 

in section 2.3.2.3. In addition, Algonquin would follow the SPCC Plan and the E&SCP it has 

proposed for this project to minimize the potential for adverse effects to wetlands. Algonquin has 

requested a variance from our Procedures at specific locations which would allow it to place 

additional temporary workspaces less than 50 feet from wetland boundaries. This is addressed in 

section 4.7.3. 

 

8

 Our Plan and Procedures are called “Guidelines” until an applicant states that it would construct its project by implementing these 

documents, or that it has incorporated them into its project-specific environmental construction plan. For any instance where the 

applicant’s construction plan differs from our Plan or Procedures, the applicant must request a variance. 
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2.3.5.3 Aboveground Facility Construction Procedures 

Algonquin would construct its proposed aboveground facilities in accordance with 

industry standards. 

Modifications at Existing Compressor Stations 

Algonquin’s construction activities at existing compressor stations would include 

installation of new buildings to enclose proposed facilities at two of the existing compressor 

stations and removal and replacement of existing turbine-compressors in the same building at the 

remaining compressor station. No expansions of station property lines are proposed. The 

majority of construction activities would occur within the existing compressor station sites, 

however additional temporary workspace would be required outside of the fenced-in portions of 

the compressor stations. 

Most construction activities would be similar to those at other commercial construction 

sites. An erosion and sedimentation control plan would be developed and implemented at each 

site. Limited clearing and grading would be performed for new facilities and workspaces. Where 

required, new foundations would be poured and the new equipment and buildings would be 

installed. New gas piping, conduit and electrical systems, and other utility piping would be 

integrated into existing compressor station systems. As with pipeline installation, all welded gas 

piping would be radiographically inspected and pressure tested prior to activation. All 

compressor station systems, including the emergency shut-down system, would be thoroughly 

tested prior to operation of the new turbine units. As work is completed in an area of the site, the 

adjoining workspaces would be cleaned up and restored. 

New Compressor Station at Oxford, Connecticut 

The proposed site of the new Oxford Compressor Station is along the Algonquin 

pipelines at MP 132.5, about 0.85 miles east of the Oxford Airport runway in the Town of 

Oxford, Connecticut. The construction site is moderately level and mostly wooded. Construction 

procedures at this site would be similar to those outlined for modifications at existing compressor 

stations; however, the amount of site preparation work required would be much greater. An 

erosion and sediment control plan would be developed and implemented at the site. A new 

access road would be installed from the main roadway. Algonquin would work with local road 

officials to establish a safe, effective entrance drive. Next, the proposed work area would be 

cleared and graded to prepare a safe, level work site. The proposed building locations would be 

laid out and new foundations would be poured. Four buildings are proposed: an office building, 

the main turbine-compressor building, a control building, and a garage/storage building. During 

the same period, work would begin on installation of the gas piping to tie into the existing 

Algonquin pipelines that traverse the central portion of the proposed compressor station site. 

Work on the interior station roads, installation of new utility connections, and other 

miscellaneous piping systems would be performed as work on the buildings progresses. 

The three turbine compressors would be set and the various piping, instrumentation and 

control systems would be connected to them. As with pipeline installation, all welded gas piping 

would be radiographically inspected and pressure tested prior to activation. Final connection to 

the Algonquin pipelines would not be made until all affected systems are ready for gas service. 

All compressor station control systems, including the emergency shut-down system, would be 

thoroughly tested prior to operation of the new turbine units. As work would be completed in an 
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area of the site, the adjoining workspaces would be cleaned and restored. Compressor station 

roads would be paved and security fencing would be installed around the perimeter of the 

compressor station. 

Meter and Regulator Station Work 

Work at M&R Stations would consist of rebuilding one existing meter station and 

modifications at another existing station. The work to be performed at the meter stations would 

be similar to that described for the existing compressor stations, but with a greatly reduced scale. 

Some clearing and grading may be necessary at each location. Prefabricated structures may be 

used to house sensitive metering and instrumentation equipment. Alterations would be made to 

the piping configurations as well as equipment changes or additions. The construction process 

would generally follow the procedures outlined for the compressor station sites with the same 

emphasis on safety and protection of the environment. 

2.3.6 IROQUOIS MARKETACCESS PROJECT 

2.3.6.1 General Pipeline Construction Procedures 

 Iroquois has not proposed any general pipeline construction; therefore, no pipeline 

construction procedures were provided. 

 

2.3.6.2 Special Construction Techniques 

 Iroquois has not proposed any special pipeline construction techniques. 

2.3.6.3 Aboveground Facility Construction Procedures 

Iroquois provided the following summary of aboveground facility construction 

procedures. However, Iroquois noted that the actual equipment and methods may vary in the 

field based on final design and federal, state and local permit conditions. Wastes generated 

during construction would be disposed in an appropriate manner. Overall construction and 

maintenance activities would be in compliance with applicable regulatory requirements of the 

Commission and with DOT requirements (e.g., 49 CFR Part 192). 

Erosion Control Procedures 

During the construction at both the Brookfield Compressor Station and the Dover 

Compressor Station sites, Iroquois would require its contractors to install and maintain 

appropriate erosion controls (e.g., silt fence and/or hay bales) to minimize the potential for 

erosion from construction of the facilities. The implementation of erosion control procedures 

would follow our Plan and Procedures and applicable general permit provisions of each state’s 

EPA-relegated NPDES program for stormwater discharges associated with construction activities. 

Iroquois does not propose any exceptions or variances to our Plan or Procedures. 
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Proposed Compressor Station Construction (Including Cooler Installation) 

As Iroquois has currently proposed, construction activities would include facilities at the 

existing Brookfield Sales Meter Station. These activities would include: 

• clearing and grading the site; 

• constructing the access road to the proposed station from High Meadow Road and 

constructing parking areas; 

• installing foundations for the compressor and control/utility buildings, gas coolers, other 

ancillary buildings, piping and major equipment; 

• erecting the structures to house the compressor and associated facilities; 

• constructing stormwater management systems; 

• installing and hydrostatically testing the high pressure piping; 

• installing the compressor, gas coolers, and auxiliary equipment, piping, and other 

electrical and mechanical systems; 

• conducting the testing of compressor controls and the start-up testing of the turbocompressor equipment; and, 

• final site grading, restoration, and landscaping. 

The typical construction activities that are anticipated during the construction of the 

Brookfield Compressor Station are summarized in the following subsections. 

Clearing and Grading 

The site for the compressor station, coolers, and temporary workspace would be cleared 

of vegetation and graded as necessary to create a consistent surface for the movement of 

construction vehicles on the site and to prepare the area for the building foundations. The access 

road would provide access from High Meadow Road and would have an approximately 20-foot 

wide paved or gravel surface. 

After completion of clearing, Iroquois would install silt fence or hay bales around 

disturbed areas in accordance with our Plan. Part IV.F.2c of our 2003 Plan and Part IV.B.3 of our 

Procedures recommend that sediment barriers be installed along the edge of wetlands and 

waterbodies where they are located adjacent to and down slope from construction workspaces, as 

necessary to prevent sediment flow into the wetland or waterbody. Although relatively flat, the 

Brookfield site is in proximity to wetland areas. Iroquois would require its contractor to install 

erosion control barriers along the down-gradient limit of construction workspace to prevent 

runoff of sediments into these wetland areas. Iroquois’ Environmental and/or Chief Inspector 

would assess factors, including weather conditions, in determining if additional erosion control 

barriers are warranted. 

Blasting may be required to prepare a level site area. Such blasting, if required, would be 

conducted in accordance with appropriate regulations. 

In addition, there are two adjacent warehouse/storage buildings on the site, with a 

combined building footprint of 80 feet by 100 feet. These buildings are in poor repair, and would 

be demolished, including the concrete foundations. Demolition of these structures would occur 

prior to commencement of other construction activities on the compressor station site. All waste 
 2.0 PROPOSED ACTION

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materials collected during building demolition would be safely disposed of off-site at an 

appropriate disposal site or in an appropriate manner. 

An impervious paved access and parking area is currently in place along the south and 

east sides of the buildings. This paved area may be used as a temporary laydown area during 

construction activities, but Iroquois plans to remove this pavement prior to completion of final 

grading and landscaping of the compressor station site. 

Foundations

Iroquois anticipates that building and gas cooler foundations would be made of poured 

reinforced concrete. A site specific geotechnical evaluation would be conducted to determine the 

recommended design of foundations. If present, topsoil would be stripped from the area of the 

building foundations. Such soil may be used on-site either for landscaping or to provide soil 

cover for the septic system leach field, if acceptable. Additional soil or subsurface materials may 

be imported from approved sources to achieve the desired site/foundation grade. 

Building and Cooler Design and Construction

 

The control building would have overall dimensions estimated to be about 40 feet by 100 

feet, with a roof peak to grade dimension of about 27 feet. The control building would include 

space for offices, a control room for the compressor station, a utility area, storage for supplies and 

materials, and a garage. 

The storage building would be about 40 feet by 40 feet, with a roof peak to grade height 

of approximately 23 feet. The building would be constructed of a steel frame and metal or other 

sheet siding material. 

The compressor building would be about 50 feet by 74 feet in plan, with a roof peak to 

grade height of about 38 feet. The compressor building would house the turbo-compressor 

equipment. The turbo-compressor equipment would be fueled by natural gas. The turbine 

equipment would have a stack height of 50 feet. These building and stack dimensions have been 

confirmed appropriate by Iroquois’ air quality modeling, but could be revised during the air 

permit preparation, and agency review and approval process. The compressor unit design would 

incorporate various safety features in accordance with DOT requirements. 

Typically, the steel frame would be erected, followed by the installation of the roof 

structural steel, interior skin, insulation, and exterior skin. Cutouts for protrusions through the 

siding (e.g., inlet and exhaust vents) would be flashed to ensure that the building would be 

weather-tight. 

The proposed cooling facilities would have a footprint of about 50 feet by 60 feet. The 

units would have a height dimension of about 20 to 25 feet. The cooler construction would 

commence after completion of its respective foundation. Typically, the steel frame would be 

erected, followed by the installation of the coolers, mechanical and electrical assembly. 

High Pressure Piping 

Iroquois proposes to design and construct the high pressure piping to meet the DOT 

requirements of 49 CFR Part 192. The high pressure gas piping in the station yard would be 
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designed to operate at a MAOP of 1,480 psig. The station discharge pressure would be controlled 

to result in main line operating pressures at or below the main line MAOP of 1,440 psig. 

Iroquois would implement two measures for corrosion protection of the station piping. 

First, Iroquois would externally coat the station piping for protection against corrosion. In 

addition, Iroquois would install a cathodic protection system to protect the buried piping. 

Pressure Testing

Prior to placing the station in-service, Iroquois would conduct hydrostatic pressure testing 

of the piping system of its pipeline within the compressor station yard. This test would be 

conducted in accordance with applicable codes, including Connecticut’s general permit 

requirements for the discharge of test water. 

Infrastructure Facilities 

The Brookfield Compressor Station would require a permanent water supply, as well as 

on-site sanitary waste disposal facilities. These needs would be met by drilling a water well, and 

developing and maintaining a domestic waste disposal system (e.g., septic system) in accordance 

with state and local codes. These facilities were identified as being needed for the Brookfield 

Compressor Station in the original project approved on October 31, 2002. 

Iroquois anticipates that the aboveground electric line would be extended from the 

distribution facilities in the existing metering station to the compressor station to accommodate 

station power requirements. The suitability of the existing service would be confirmed during 

detailed engineering design. Power and communication cable that would run between buildings 

on site would be installed in buried precast cable trenches. During a meeting Iroquois held with 

the Connecticut Light & Power Company (CL&P), the local electrical utility for the area, CL&P 

indicated that the power lines on High Meadow Road and adjacent to the proposed compressor 

station site are adequately sized to provide all of the necessary electrical power to the proposed 

compressor station. CL&P would extend an underground electrical service from a power pole 

just outside of the property of High Meadow Road, along the existing fence line, to a transformer 

just east of the proposed control building. The electric line installation is further discussed in 

section 1.4. 

Controls Commissioning and Engine Start-Up 

Before the new compressor is put into service, Iroquois would develop and implement a 

station commissioning plan. Iroquois anticipates that this plan would include the checking and 

testing of controls and safety features including the emergency shutdown system, relief valves, 

gas and fire detection facilities, over-speed, vibration, and other on- and off-engine protection and 

safety devices. Following the successful completion of the station commissioning, turbocompressor equipment would be trial-operated. Iroquois anticipates that the initial trial operation 

of turbo-compressor equipment would consist of several runs of short duration. 

Final Grading and Landscaping

Prior to construction, Iroquois would develop a plan for the final grading and landscaping 

of the project area consistent with our Plan and Procedures. The post-construction surface 

conditions would generally consist of developed areas occupied by the buildings and pavement, 

and mowed lawn within the station fencing. 
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A number of activities would be performed as part of the completion of the construction 

work. Iroquois would extend the existing permanent security fence around the meter station to 

include the compressor station. Iroquois also would pave the permanent extension of the site 

access road and additional parking area. After the completion of these activities and the start-up 

and testing of the new compressor equipment, or as soon thereafter as weather and other 

conditions permit, Iroquois would complete the final grading and landscaping of the compressor 

station site, in accordance with the above-mentioned plans. 

Proposed Gas Cooler Installation at the Dover Compressor Station 

The proposed gas cooler installation at the existing Dover Compressor Station would be 

conducted in a similar manner as described for the Brookfield, Connecticut site. This installation 

would include installing foundations for the gas cooler, erecting the structure to support the 

cooler; installing various piping, and other electrical and mechanical systems. 

Clearing and Grading

 

The site for the gas cooler and work area would be cleared of vegetation and graded as 

necessary to create a level surface for the movement of construction vehicles on the site and to 

prepare the area for the building foundations. Iroquois expects minimal clearing would be 

required as the proposed workspace is predominately a grass field. 

After the completion of clearing, Iroquois would install silt fence or hay bales around 

disturbed areas in accordance with the recommendations in our Plan and Procedures. The 

proposed workspace at the Dover Compressor Station is relatively flat (5 percent or less gradient) 

and is at least 100 feet from wetland areas. Iroquois would instruct its contractor to install either 

safety or silt fencing along the southern limit of the proposed temporary workspace as part of 

mitigation measures associated with a culturally significant site identified south of the project 

area. Iroquois’ Environmental and/or Chief Inspector would assess factors, including weather 

conditions, in determining if new or additional erosion controls are warranted to prevent runoff of 

sediments into off-site wetland areas. 

Iroquois does not anticipate the need for blasting, but if required, blasting would be 

conducted in accordance with appropriate regulations. 

Foundations

Iroquois anticipates that the gas cooler foundations would be constructed of poured 

reinforced concrete. A site specific geotechnical evaluation would be conducted to determine the 

recommended design of foundations. The gas cooler foundations would be constructed of poured 

reinforced concrete. Topsoil may be stripped from the area of the gas cooler foundations. Such 

soil may be used on-site for landscaping. Additional soil or subsurface materials may be 

imported from approved sources to achieve the desired site/foundation grade. 

Gas Cooler Design and Construction

The foot print for the gas cooler would have dimensions of about 50 feet by 120 feet, 

with a height of about 20 to 25 feet. The footprint dimensions of the gas coolers would be 

confirmed during detailed engineering design. The gas cooler construction would commence 
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after completion of its respective foundation. Typically, the steel frame would be erected, 

followed by the installation of the gas coolers, mechanical and electrical assembly. 

High Pressure Piping

Iroquois would design and construct the high pressure piping to meet the DOT 

requirements of 49 CFR Part 192 requirements. Iroquois proposes to design the high pressure gas 

piping in the station yard for a MAOP of 1,480 psig. Iroquois would control the station discharge 

pressure to result in main line pressures at or below the main line MAOP of 1,440 psig. 

 

Iroquois would implement two measures for corrosion protection of the gas cooler 

piping. First, Iroquois proposes to externally coat the piping for protection against corrosion. 

Second, Iroquois would install a cathodic protection system to protect the buried piping. 

Hydrostatic Testing

Prior to placing the proposed facilities in-service, Iroquois would conduct hydrostatic 

pressure testing of the piping system. Iroquois would conduct this test in accordance with 

applicable codes. 

Infrastructure Facilities

The gas cooler would require modifications to the existing station discharge piping. 

Iroquois anticipates that electric lines would be installed from existing station power facilities to 

the gas coolers. Electric cables from existing facilities to the gas cooler location would be buried. 

Installation of New Station Discharge Line, Isolation Valve, and Heavy Wall Pipe

As part of the gas cooler construction, a new discharge line isolation valve would be 

installed, with an estimated 30 feet of existing discharge pipe being replaced. The new isolation 

valve would be constructed within the existing fenced compressor station. The valve is required 

to direct the gas into the coolers. The coolers would require a below ground suction and 

discharge header, each up to 250 feet in length. 

Because of the variable depth of the water table in the area, trench dewatering may be 

required prior to pipe installation. If so, ditch de-watering would be conducted so as to minimize 

erosion and would be accomplished in accordance with our Plan and Procedures. 

 

Iroquois would prefabricate, test, and connect the new isolation valve assembly and 

associated piping to the existing station discharge piping. 

Controls Commissioning and Start-Up

Before the new gas coolers are put into service, Iroquois would develop and implement a 

commissioning plan. Iroquois anticipates this plan would include the checking and testing of 

controls and safety features including possibly the emergency shutdown system, relief valves, gas 

and fire detection facilities, and other on- and off-engine protection and safety devices. 

Following the successful completion of commissioning, the gas coolers would be trial-operated. 
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Final Grading and Landscaping

Prior to construction, Iroquois would develop a plan for the final grading and landscaping 

of the project area consistent with our Plan for the restoration of uplands. The ground surfaces 

within the newly disturbed areas at the Dover Compressor Station site would be gravel-covered 

under the gas coolers, paved along the driveway extension to the gas cooler area, and mowed 

lawn within the remaining yard. 

A number of activities would be performed as part of the completion of the construction 

work. Iroquois would extend the existing permanent security fence to include the gas cooler 

additions. After the completion of these activities and the start-up and testing of the gas cooler 

unit, or as soon thereafter as weather and other conditions permit, Iroquois would complete final 

grading and landscaping of the site, in accordance with the above-mentioned plans. 

2.4 OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE 

All of the applicants would operate and maintain their facilities in accordance with the 

applicable safety standards established by the DOT [49 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 

192]. The standards imposed are in accordance with the Natural Gas Pipeline Safety Act of 1968, 

as amended. The pipeline system would be monitored and controlled 24 hours a day by gas 

controllers that detect pressure drops in the pipeline that could indicate a leak. Pipeline facilities, 

including the aboveground facilities, may be part of a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition 

(“SCADA”) system, which monitors the pipeline system on a 24-hour per day basis. 

Routine pipeline operation and maintenance activities would include periodic aerial 

reconnaissance and ground patrols to visually inspect the route from above or on the ground for 

activities such as vegetative or other encroachment, evidence of unauthorized activity, damaged 

or exposed pipeline facilities, areas of environmental concern (e.g., subsidence, erosion), and 

other concerns that could affect public safety and operation of the project. Routine aerial patrols 

of the pipeline ROW would be conducted in accordance with each applicant’s operating 

procedures. 

Vegetation along the permanent pipeline ROW would be maintained to prevent woody 

growth from encroaching onto the permanent easement (e.g., brush cutting, tree trimming). The 

maintenance is necessary to assure pipeline integrity and ROW accessibility. Other maintenance 

functions would include: periodic seasonal mowing of the ROW in accordance with the timing 

restrictions outlined in our Plan and Procedures; terrace repair, backfill replacement and drain 

tile repair as necessary; periodic inspection of water crossings; and maintenance of a supply of 

emergency pipe, leak repair clamps, sleeves, and other equipment needed for repair activities. 

Herbicides or pesticides would not be used within 100 feet of a wetland or waterbody unless 

approved by appropriate state and local agencies. 

The proposed facilities would be operated and maintained in a manner such that pipeline 

integrity is maintained in the interest of assuring that a safe, continuous supply of natural gas 

reaches its ultimate destination. Maintenance activities would include regularly scheduled gasleak surveys and measures necessary to repair any potential leaks. The latter may include repair 

or replacement of pipe segments. All fence posts, signs, marker posts, aerial markers, and decals 

would be painted or replaced to ensure that the pipeline locations would be visible from the air 

and ground. 
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The valve settings and associated valves on the block valves would be inspected at least 

once per year and no less frequently than every 15 months. During the inspection, the valve 

would be greased and partially operated. Other maintenance activities may include isolating a 

section of pipeline, evacuating the gas from that section, and painting of aboveground piping on 

an as-needed basis. 

The measurement facilities would be inspected at a frequency based on the mutual 

agreement of the interconnecting parties and generally accepted industry standards, depending on 

the equipment installed at the facility. Maintenance activities may include inspecting the meter, 

calibrating pressure and temperature transducers, calibrating the chromatograph, maintaining the 

building and yard, checking for leaks, and painting of aboveground piping. 

The regulator stations and associated equipment (such as heaters) would be inspected at 

least once each calendar year and not to exceed 15 months to make sure they are operating 

properly. Other activities may include heater maintenance, including cleaning the burner 

assembly and adding heater fluid, checking for leaks, calibrating controllers, changing filters, 

making pressure adjustments, painting of aboveground piping, and maintaining the building and 

yard. 

The pig launchers/receivers involve smart pigging the pipeline to check the integrity of 

the pipeline. This would be done periodically, as required by the DOT regulations. Pigging may 

also be used to remove fluid from the pipeline. 

 Pipeline personnel and subcontracted entities would be qualified and properly trained for 

the tasks for which they are assigned. They would be well qualified to perform both emergency 

and routine maintenance on interstate pipeline facilities. The DOT requires that pipeline 

companies develop and maintain a written qualifications program for individuals performing 

certain safety-related tasks, known as the Operator Qualification Program. The Operator 

Qualification Program would document formal training and on-the-job experience. The intent is 

to ensure a qualified workforce and reduce the possibility of incidents caused by human error. 

Cathodic protection of the pipeline would be installed with impressed current systems 

that employ rectifier/groundbed systems. Rectifier units would be installed along the pipeline and 

aboveground test stations would be installed at various locations along the pipeline to gather 

accurate information for potential current adjustments. The cathodic protection system would be 

regularly monitored to maintain required pipe-to-soil potential and would be achieved in 

accordance with the specifications that would meet or exceed DOT regulations. 

In areas where the proposed pipeline parallels high-voltage electric transmission lines, an 

alternating current (“AC”) mitigation system would be implemented as necessary to reduce stray 

current and prevent possible shock to personnel during post-construction activities and prevent 

interference with the cathodic protection system. 

2.4.1 MILLENNIUM PIPELINE PROJECT - PHASE I 

Millennium would operate and maintain the proposed facilities in accordance with the 

applicable safety standards established by the DOT [49 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 

192]. The standards imposed are in accordance with the Natural Gas Pipeline Safety Act of 1968, 

as amended. It would implement the operation and maintenance procedures described above, as 

appropriate. 
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2.4.2 EMPIRE CONNECTOR PROJECT

 

Empire’s project would be operated and maintained by appropriately trained and licensed 

Empire employees and contracted entities, in accordance with regulatory permit conditions and 

authorizations, engineering design specifications, recommended manufacturer maintenance 

practices, and Empire operating policies and procedures consistent with 49 CFR Part 192. It 

would implement the operation and maintenance procedures described above, as appropriate. 

 

Empire expects that the 20,620-hp Oakfield Compressor Station would be manned on a 

full-time basis by Empire personnel and required vendor representatives during the initial system 

commissioning. Personnel would also be present at certain valve locations when the system is 

pressurized and the line is filled with natural gas. These activities would be conducted in 

accordance with an engineering commissioning procedure that would include general operations 

surveillance, line fill, equipment checks and troubleshooting, starting and stopping equipment, 

equipment maintenance, permit compliance testing (e.g. emissions), and inventory accounting. 

Empire would develop and/or modify existing procedures to properly operate the pipeline 

facilities in accordance with governmental regulations; permit requirements and authorizations; 

manufacturer recommendations; and Empire Operating Plans and Procedures. These 

standardized and systematic procedures would enhance performance, reliability, and safety of the 

pipeline. The manual would address those routine pipeline operations (e.g., system checks, 

cleaning, and maintenance) and non-routine activities (e.g., trouble-shooting, system analysis, and 

emergency response). 

2.4.3 ALGONQUIN RAMAPO EXPANSION PROJECT

 

Algonquin would own and maintain the Ramapo Expansion Project. Algonquin would 

operate and maintain the newly constructed pipeline in the same manner as it currently operates 

and maintains its major interstate pipeline facilities in the Northeast and in accordance with the 

requirements of the DOT in 49 CFR Part 192. It would implement the operation and maintenance 

procedures described above, as appropriate. 

The project would require additional permanent staff and new operations offices and/or 

district offices for operation and maintenance of the proposed 37,700 hp Oxford Compressor 

Station to be located in the Town of Oxford, New Haven County, Connecticut. 

2.4.4 IROQUOIS MARKETACCESS PROJECT 

Iroquois would operate and maintain the proposed 7,700 hp Brookfield Compressor 

Station and modified Dover Compressor Station in accordance with DOT requirements in 49 

CFR part 192 and standard procedures designed to ensure the integrity and safe operation of the 

pipeline system and to maintain firm natural gas transportation service. In addition to on-site 

operation and maintenance activities, the proposed Brookfield Compressor Station would be 

linked to Iroquois' Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (“SCADA”) system, which 

monitors the pipeline system on a 24-hour per day basis. 

In accordance with the DOT requirements, Iroquois would conduct various routine 

maintenance and operations procedures to ensure that the station operates safely. Standard 

Iroquois operations at existing compressor stations include activities such as the calibration, 

maintenance and inspection of equipment, as well as the monitoring of pressure, temperature, and 

vibration data, and traditional landscape maintenance such as mowing and application of 
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fertilizer, etc. Standard Iroquois operations currently also include the periodic checking of safety 

and emergency equipment and any cathodic protection systems. 

2.5 FUTURE PLANS AND ABANDONMENT 

 

2.5.1 MILLENNIUM PIPELINE PROJECT - PHASE I 

 

Millennium has no current plans for facility abandonment. Columbia states that the 

proposed Line A-5 Replacement Project would accommodate future potential system capacity 

expansion. Neither company has any immediate plans for expansion of its proposed or existing 

facilities. However, this may change with developing market conditions. Millennium and 

Columbia would seek appropriate federal and state authorizations for any facility abandonment or 

construction. 

2.5.2 EMPIRE CONNECTOR PROJECT 

Empire states that at this time, there are no foreseeable future plans to expand the Empire 

Connector Project beyond the description and scope currently proposed. However, certain design 

aspects (e.g., compression capabilities) have been engineered to allow for project expansion if 

market conditions change such that an expansion is justified. For example, Empire states that it 

may pursue an interconnection with the Seneca Lake Storage facility that exists near the route at 

some future time. Additionally, Empire states that at some time in the future, project facilities 

could be decommissioned and abandoned, but the circumstances and timing are not known and 

cannot be predicted with any reasonable accuracy. 

2.5.3 ALGONQUIN RAMAPO EXPANSION PROJECT 

Algonquin has not identified any current or reasonably foreseeable plans for future 

expansion of the facilities proposed in this docket. However, Algonquin states that to the extent 

that expansion of facilities is required due to additional demand for natural gas service, this 

expansion could involve other pipeline segments not proposed in this docket. Any new facilities 

would be designed to be compatible with existing or proposed facilities. 

2.5.4 IROQUOIS MARKETACCESS PROJECT 

Iroquois states that it currently has no plans for future expansion of the proposed facilities 

or for the abandonment or removal of existing pipeline facilities. If natural gas demands warrant 

additional major facilities in the future, separate authorizations by the Commission and by any 

other involved regulatory agencies would probably be required. 

2.6 PERMITS, APPROVALS, AND REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS 

The Commission is required to ensure compliance with section 7 of the Endangered 

Species Act (ESA) and section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA). 

 Section 7 of the ESA, as amended, states that any project authorized, funded, or 

conducted by any federal agency (e.g., the Commission) should not “... jeopardize the continued 

existence of any endangered species or threatened species or result in the destruction or adverse 

modification of habitat of such species which is determined ... to be critical ...” (16 U.S. Code 

§1536(a)(2) 1988). The Commission is required to consult with the FWS and the NMFS to 

determine whether any federally listed or proposed endangered or threatened species or their 
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designated critical habitat occur in the vicinity of the project. If, upon review of existing data, the 

Commission determines that these species or habitats may be affected by the project, the 

Commission is required to prepare a Biological Assessment (BA) to identify the nature and extent 

of adverse impact, and to recommend mitigation measures that would avoid the habitat and/or 

species, or reduce potential impact to acceptable levels. If, however, the Commission determines 

that no federally listed or proposed endangered or threatened species or their designated critical 

habitat would be affected by the project, no further action is necessary. See section 4.6 of this 

FSEIS for the status of this review. 

 Section 106 of the NHPA requires the FERC to take into account the effects of its 

undertakings on any prehistoric or historic sites, districts, buildings, structures, objects, or 

properties of traditional religious or cultural importance to Native Americans, listed on or eligible 

for listing on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP), and to afford the Advisory 

Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP) an opportunity to comment on the undertaking. The 

Commission has requested that Millennium, as a non-federal party, assist it in meeting its 

obligations under section 106 by preparing the necessary information and analyses as required by 

the ACHP procedures in 36 CFR part 800. The FERC is required to consult with the appropriate 

state historic preservation officer (SHPO) regarding the NRHP eligibility of cultural resources 

and the potential effects of the proposed undertaking on any NRHP-listed or -eligible cultural 

resources. See section 4.9 of this FSEIS for the status of this review. 

 In addition to the FERC's requirement for a Certificate, other federal, state, or local 

regulatory agencies may have environmental permit or approval authority over portions of the 

proposed project (see tables 2.6-1a and 2.6-1b). The Commission states in its orders that 

applicants should cooperate with state and local agencies. However, any state or local permits 

issued with respect to the jurisdictional facilities must be consistent with the conditions of any 

Certificate the Commission may issue. Although the Commission encourages cooperation 

between interstate pipelines and local authorities, this does not mean that state and local agencies, 

through application of state or local laws, may prohibit or unreasonably delay the construction or 

operation of facilities approved by the Commission. 

2.6.1 MILLENNIUM PIPELINE PROJECT – PHASE I 

On May 9, 2002, the New York State Department of State (NYSDOS) determined the 

original Millennium Pipeline Project to be inconsistent with New York State’s coastal 

management program. The NYSDOS reviewed Millennium’s project pursuant to section 

307(c)(3)(a) of the Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA), 16 USC section 1456(c)(3)(a), and 

the implementing regulations of the Department of Commerce at 15 CFR Part 930, Subpart D. 

Millennium appealed this decision to the Department of Commerce. On December 12, 2004, the 

Department of Commerce ruled on Millennium’s consistency appeal concluding that the project 

did not satisfy the all elements of the two grounds set forth in the Coastal Zone Management Act 

for allowing a project to proceed notwithstanding a state’s objections. On March 31, 2006, a 

Decision in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia was issued in Civil Action No. 

04-233(RCL) supporting the previous appeal decision and the case was dismissed with prejudice. 

On May 3, 2006, Millennium filed with the Secretary of the Commission an amendment 

application which in part seeks to vacate the portions of the original Millennium Pipeline Project 

that were not included as part of the described Phase I Project facilities. This request would 

remove from further consideration pipeline facilities within the New York coastal zone. 

On January 20, 2004, the Corps denied without prejudice Millennium’s COE permit 

application for the FERC approved route, in accordance with 33 CFR 320.4(j)(1), as the 
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individual coastal zone consistency concurrence for Millennium’s project was denied on May 9, 

2002 by the NYSDOS. This determination was upheld by the U.S. Secretary of Commerce on 

December 15, 2003. The Corps identified the proposed Hudson River crossing at Haverstraw 

Bay as one of the remaining issues of concern. The Corps also noted that if a considerable 

amount of time passed prior to the reinstatement of a permit application, the Corps may determine 

that a re-evaluation of aquatic resources to be impacted by the construction of the pipeline is 

necessary. 

 The environmental permits required for the Millennium Pipeline Project – Phase 1 are 

listed in table 2.6-1a. The permits required for the Columbia Line A-5 Project are listed in table 

2.6-1b. 
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Table 2.6-1a. 

Permits and Approvals for the Millennium Pipeline Project – Phase I

Agency Permit/Approval 

Federal 

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission FERC sections 7 (b) and 7(c), Natural Gas Act, Certificate of Public 

Convenience and Necessity 

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New York District Section 404, Clean Water Act (CWA), Individual Permit 

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New York District Section 10, River and Harbors Act (RHA), Individual Permit 

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Buffalo District Section 404, CWA, Individual Permit 

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Buffalo District Section 10, RHA, Individual Permit 

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Section 7, Endangered Species Act, Threatened and Endangered 

Species Consultation 

Advisory Council on Historic Preservation Comment on the project and its effects on historic properties 

Interstate 

Palisades Interstate Parkway Commission Easement for Sterling Forest State Park 

Palisades Interstate Parkway Commission Easement for Harriman State Park 

Delaware River Basin Commission Review of Project Impacts on Upper Delaware National Scenic and 

Recreational Area 

State 

New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Agricultural Mitigation Coordination 

New York State Department of Environmental 

Conservation 

Section 401, CWA, Certification 

Section 402, CWA, Construction Stormwater Permit – General Permit 

Section 402, CWA, Hydrostatic Test Water Discharge Permit 

New York State Department of Environmental 

Conservation - Natural Heritage Program 

Natural Heritage Program Consultation 

New York State Department of Transportation Highway Crossing Permit 

New York State Dormitory Commission Temporary Revocable Permit to Cross Dormitory Commission Lands 

New York Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic 

Preservation, Field Services Bureau 

Section 106, National Historic Preservation Act, review and comment 

on undertakings potentially affecting cultural resources 

New York Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic 

Preservation 

Easement 

Local 

County Road Commissions Road Crossing Permits 

County Conservation Districts Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control Reviews 

Towns Road Crossing Permits 
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Table 2.6-1b. 

Permits and Approvals for the Columbia Line A-5 Replacement Project 

Agency Permit/Approval 

Federal 

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Sections 7(b) and 7(c), Natural Gas Act, Certificate of Public 

Convenience and Necessity 

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New York District Section 404, CWA, Individual Permit 

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Section 7, Endangered Species Act, Threatened and Endangered 

Species Consultation 

Advisory Council on Historic Preservation Comment on the project and its effects on historic properties 

Interstate 

Palisades Interstate Park Commission Easement for Sterling Forest ® State Park 

Palisades Interstate Park Commission Easement for Harriman State Park 

State 

New York State Department of Environmental 

Conservation 

Section 401, CWA, Water Quality Certification 

Section 402, CWA, Construction Stormwater Permit – General Permit 

Section 402, CWA, Hydrostatic Test Water Discharge Permit 

State Facility Air Permit 

New York State Historic Preservation Officer Section 106, National Historic Preservation Act, review and comment 

on undertakings potentially affecting cultural resources 

New York State Department of Transportation Road Crossing Permits 

Local 

County Road Commissions Road Crossing Permits 

2.6.2 EMPIRE CONNECTOR PROJECT 

 The environmental permits required for the Empire Connector Project are listed in table 

2.6-2. 
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Table 2.6-2. 

Permits and Approvals for the Empire Connector Project 

Agency Permit/Approval 

Federal 

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Section 7(c), Natural Gas Act, Certificate of Public Convenience and 

Necessity 

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Buffalo District Section 404, CWA, Individual Permit 

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Section 7, Endangered Species Act, Threatened and Endangered 

Species Consultation 

Advisory Council on Historic Preservation Comment on the project and its effects on historic properties 

State 

New York State Department of Environmental 

Conservation 

Section 401, CWA, Water Quality Certification 

Section 402, CWA, Construction Stormwater Permit – General Permit 

Section 402, CWA, Hydrostatic Test Water Discharge Permit 

State Facility Air Permit 

New York State Historic Preservation Officer Section 106, National Historic Preservation Act, review and comment 

on undertakings potentially affecting cultural resources 

New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Agriculture and Agriculture Commodities, sensitive soils review 

New York State Thruway Authority Access Permit 

Local 

Towns Building Permits – as required 

Towns Oakfield Zoning Variance – Special Use Permit 

Towns and Railroads Roads and Railroad crossing permits/approvals 

County Road Commissions Road Crossing Permits 

County Conservation Districts Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control Reviews 

2.6.3 ALGONQUIN RAMAPO EXPANSION PROJECT 

 The environmental permits required for the Algonquin Ramapo Expansion Project are 

listed in table 2.6-3. 
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Table 2.6-3. 

Permits and Approvals for the Algonquin Ramapo Expansion Project

Agency Permit/Approval 

Federal 

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Section 7(c), Natural Gas Act, Certificate of Public Convenience and 

Necessity 

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New York District Section 404, CWA, Individual Permit 

Section 10, RHA, Individual Permit 

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New England District Section 404, CWA, Individual Permit 

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Section 7, Endangered Species Act, Threatened and Endangered 

Species Consultation Clearance 

State – Connecticut 

Connecticut Siting Council Petition for Advisory Ruling 

Connecticut Natural Diversity Data Base Section 7, Endangered Species Act, Threatened and Endangered 

Species Consultation 

Connecticut Historical Commission Section 106, National Historic Preservation Act, review and comment 

on undertakings potentially affecting cultural resources 

Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection Section 402, CWA, Construction Stormwater Permit – General Permit 

Section 402, CWA, Hydrostatic Test Water Discharge Permit 

General Permit for Diversion of Water for Consumptive Use 

Title V Operating Permit 

Permits to Construct/Certificate to operate air contamination source – 

Air quality permit to construct and operate stationary natural gas turbocompressor 

State – New York

New York State (NYS) Department of Environmental 

Conservation (DEC) Natural Heritage Program 

Section 7, Endangered Species Act, Threatened and Endangered 

Species Consultation 

New York State Department of Environmental 

Conservation 

Section 401, CWA, Water Quality Certification 

Section 402, CWA, Construction Stormwater Permit – General Permit 

Section 402, CWA, Hydrostatic Test Water Discharge Permit 

Freshwater Wetlands Permit 

Permit to Construct and Certificate to Operate Stationary Combustion 

Installation (or waiver) 

NYS of State, Division of Coastal Resources Coastal Zone Consistency Review (Hudson River Valve Site) 

NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic 

Preservation 

Section 106, National Historic Preservation Act, review and comment 

on undertakings potentially affecting cultural resources 

NYS Office of General Services Utility Easement 

State – New Jersey 

New Jersey Office of Permit Coordination & 

Environmental Review/Pollution Prevention 

Permit Coordination & Environmental Review 
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Table 2.6-3. 

Permits and Approvals for the Algonquin Ramapo Expansion Project

Agency Permit/Approval 

New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection 

(NJ DEP), Land Use Regulation Program 

Section 402, CWA, Construction Stormwater Permit – General Permit 

Section 402, CWA, Hydrostatic Test Water Discharge Permit 

Freshwater Wetlands Act Permit 

NJ DEP Air Quality Permitting Program Application for Banking and/or Verifying Creditable Emission 

Reductions 

Air Pollution Control Permit 

NJ SHPO Section 106, National Historic Preservation Act, review and comment 

on undertakings potentially affecting cultural resources 

NJ Natural Heritage Program Section 7, Endangered Species Act, Threatened and Endangered 

Species Consultation 

Local

Town of Oxford, CT Inland Wetlands Commission Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Permit 

Rockland County Drainage Agency, New York Rockland County Stream Control Act Permit 

New York City Department of Environmental Protection Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan - Review and Approval 

(Southeast Compressor Station) / review of erosion and sedimentation 

control drawings and construction sequencing plans 

2.6.4 IROQUOIS MARKETACCESS PROJECT 

 The environmental permits required for the Iroquois MarketAccess Project are listed in 

table 2.6-4. 

Table 2.6-4. 

Permits and Approvals for the Iroquois MarketAccess Project 

Agency Permit/Approval 

Federal 

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity 

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service – New England 

Ecological Field Office 

Section 7, Endangered Species Act, Threatened and Endangered 

Species Consultation 

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service – New York Ecological 

Field Office 

Section 7, Endangered Species Act, Threatened and Endangered 

Species Consultation 

State - Connecticut 

Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection Section 402, CWA, Construction Stormwater Permit – General Permit 

Section 402, CWA, Hydrostatic Test Water Discharge Permit 

Permits to Construct/Certificate to operate air contamination source – 

Air quality permit to construct and operate stationary natural gas turbocompressor 

 Clearance/no impacts to Rare Species and Habitat – General 

construction and operation of the proposed project. 
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Table 2.6-4. 

Permits and Approvals for the Iroquois MarketAccess Project 

Agency Permit/Approval 

Connecticut State Historic Preservation Office Section 106, National Historic Preservation Act, review and comment 

on undertakings potentially affecting cultural resources 

State – New York

New York State Department of Environmental 

Conservation 

Section 402, CWA, Construction Stormwater Permit – General Permit 

Section 402, CWA, Hydrostatic Test Water Discharge Permit 

New York State Historic Preservation Office Section 106, National Historic Preservation Act, review and comment 

on undertakings potentially affecting cultural resources. 

Local

Town of Brookfield Building/Health Department Local Approvals for Compressor site Buildings and Structures – 

Construction of compressor building. May include site plan review, 

septic design approval, well installation, etc. 

Town of Brookfield Inland Wetlands and Watercourses 

Agency 

Inland Wetland and Watercourses Permit – Construction within buffer 

zone of inland wetlands and watercourses. 

Town of Dover Negative Determination – State Environmental Quality Review Act 

(SEQRA) – Activities involving a local action. Compliance with state 

threatened and endangered species laws are part of this SEQRA 

review. 

Town of Dover Land Use Permit Application/Site Plan Approval – Local approvals for 

adding gas cooler and LCC building at Dover compressor station. May 

include site plan approval or building height variance. 

2.7 COMPLAINT RESOLUTION 

Overall, we believe that our review of impacts and proposed mitigation measures in this 

FSEIS; our recommendations for additional mitigation measures and actions that the applicants 

must complete before construction; and other agencies’ review, recommendations and required 

mitigation measures as part of the various other required federal, state, and local permit approval 

processes, would serve to identify and avoid, minimize, or mitigate for impacts resulting from 

construction and operation of the proposed project. 

However, due to the high level of sensitivity of certain areas (such as residential areas) 

and the potential for daily construction and construction-related activities to create an 

inconvenience or nuisance in these areas, specific landowner or other issues could arise which are 

difficult to anticipate during preconstruction planning. Furthermore, these issues can often be 

resolved if lines of communication are open between the landowners and the pipeline company, 

and the company establishes a procedure for receiving and addressing complaints. 

To monitor implementation of construction procedures and mitigation measures, we would 

require that the pipeline companies file weekly status reports that include a description of 

landowner/resident complaints and how these complaints were addressed or resolved. In addition, 

issues or concerns can be reported directly to the FERC enforcement hotline for follow-up during 

FERC staff inspections. 
 2.0 PROPOSED ACTION

2-64 

Additionally, to ensure that all affected landowners would know whom to contact when they 

have questions or problems with pipeline construction or restoration, we recommend that: 

• Each pipeline company should establish an environmental mitigation complaint 

resolution procedure that would be in place throughout construction and restoration of 

the Millennium Pipeline Project. The procedure shall provide landowners and/or 

abutters with clear and simple directions for identifying and resolving their 

environmental mitigation problems/concerns during construction of the pipeline 

facilities and restoration of the ROW. Prior to construction, the company should mail 

the complaint procedure to each landowner whose property would be crossed by the 

project and abutters whose properties are adjacent to a road or utility ROW that 

would be used for installation of the pipeline. The complaint resolution procedure 

must: 

a. include a local contact (and telephone number) and the pipeline company’s 

"hotline" contact (and toll-free telephone number) that the 

landowner/abutter should first call with his/her concerns; 

b. indicate how long it would take after complaints/inquiries are made for the 

pipeline company to respond; 

c. indicate that the response would inform the caller how and when problems 

were or would be resolved; and 

d. instruct the landowner/abutter that if they are still not satisfied with the 

response from contacting the pipeline company’s “hotline,” then the 

Commission’s Enforcement Hotline may be contacted at (877) 303-4340. 

In addition, we recommend that: 

• Each pipeline company should include in its weekly status report a table that contains 

the following information for each problem/concern reported: 

a. the identity of the caller and the date of the call; 

b. the CAS alignment sheet number, property identification number, and 

milepost/survey station number of the property; 

d. a description of the concern/problem; and 

e. an explanation of how and when the problem was resolved, or why it has not 

been resolved.