Letter to the Editor: Concerned about gas line and station

By Sun Advocate

Editor:
Even after the public open house on Feb. 10 I remain very concerned about the proposed gas line improvements and operation of the existing compression station located near my property in Carbon County.
Although there are many environmental and safety hazards associated with the construction and operation of the proposed gas main alignment, I am very troubled with the noise and air pollution that will occur with the resumed operation of the existing compression station. My property, as well as other residential properties along 1000 North, 1300 North, 1500 North, 1000 West, 1100 West, and 1200 West will be significantly impacted by this renewed pollution.
In addition to the contamination of the air quality and the interruption of the peacefully quiet neighborhoods, there are also operational safety concerns that exist. I’m sure that there are several potential measures Questar might consider to mitigate this situation and lessen the impacts of this contamination. However, the fact remains that there will inevitably be noise and air pollution imposed on the local residences without relocation of the station.
Similarly, the construction of a new gas main could result in detrimental impacts to our water, cultural, biological, and geological resources, as well as the future land use of local properties.
In addition to the environmental concerns associated with these improvements, there are also economic consequences that will directly affect the local residences. The properties located in the vicinity of the compression station and adjacent to the proposed gas main alignment will depreciate in value when considering the placement of large utility easements and a reduction in air and noise quality.
Personally, my continued efforts to provide phased residential development located slightly north of 1100 North and Woodhill Drive will be hindered economically by the gas line improvements and the compression station operation. Additionally, the 750 acres of land that I own will be scarred along the proposed alignment, and any future development and improvements that might have been considered for this land will be significantly constrained.
These impacts to my property and to the local community of Price are simply unacceptable. Consideration should be provided for relocation of the compression station to a more appropriate site that addresses the safety and environmental concerns of the local community. In the event that a new gas main is unavoidable, alignment alternatives should be considered and coordinated with the current property owners in order to reduce impact to existing and future residences. Where impact occurs, the affected individuals and property owners should receive reasonable financial compensation considering current and future land uses.