Mayor Walsh files request for rehearing with FERC in regards to proposed West Roxbury Pipeline

Mayor Martin J. Walsh today joined the West Roxbury delegation to announce that the City of Boston has filed a request for a rehearing with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) in regards to the West Roxbury Lateral Gas Pipeline. The City's request comes in response to FERC’s Final Environmental Impact Statement on March 3, 2015 which would allow Algonquin Gas to construct a new High Pressure Gas Line along Washington Street and Grove Street in West Roxbury in addition to a Metering and Regulation Station across from the West Roxbury Crushed Stone. The proposed pipeline poses public safety concerns because it would be constructed directly across the street from a quarry that uses dynamite on a daily basis. 

"I have listened to the concerns of the community, and we have asked Algonquin Gas and Spectra Energy several times to find a new route for this pipeline," said Mayor Walsh. "The project as proposed poses real public safety risks for West Roxbury residents, and we must work together with the community and with our city, state and federal partners to find a solution that is in the best interests of West Roxbury residents." 

The City's rehearing has been filed on behalf of the West Roxbury Delegation: Mayor Walsh, U.S. Congressman Stephen F. Lynch, Senator Michael Rush, Representative Ed Coppinger, City Councilor O’Malley, and the Boston City Councilors at Large.

"Mayor Walsh, Senator Rush, Representative Coppinger and Councilor O'Malley have been absolutely relentless in the fight to change the route of the pipeline."  said Congressman Lynch. "I am proud to join Mayor Walsh today in filing for a rehearing from FERC. We are all together on this. We will use every avenue to protect the neighborhood. We have consulted with Attorney General Maura Healey and we'll continue fight to protect the public's safety,"

“We have heard concerns from hundreds of residents in our community on the proposed gas line project in the area,” said Senator Rush.  “It is incumbent on us to seek out answers to public safety, environmental and quality of life issues before this project moves forward.  I commend Mayor Walsh and his legal staff, as well as my colleagues on the state and federal level who have worked jointly on, and continue to pursue, methods to protect our neighborhoods.”

“Today's filing is a big step as we look to give the community a real opportunity to have their voices heard in opposition to the proposed Spectra natural gas pipeline," said Representative Coppinger. "Through a strong coalition of neighbors, West Roxbury Saves Energy and other community groups, and our dedicated elected officials, we have made it clear to FERC that residents of West Roxbury and Roslindale demand a seat at the table.”-

"I am proud to stand with Mayor Walsh, Congressman Lynch and my colleagues in government as we work together to protect the health and safety of all West Roxbury residents," said City Councilor O'Malley.  "We will exhaust all options in ensuring an open and transparent process regarding this potentially dangerous pipeline."