New Gas Transmission Line Raises Lots Of Questions

January 24, 2005, I cannot support a vague plan to construct a natural gas pipeline through Sumner and Trousdale counties. The company proposing the pipeline has left residents in the dark about the exact route of the pipeline, why it is needed and how it would affect the environment.

Midwestern Gas Transmission Co. has done a poor job in allaying concerns of property owners, local officials and other concerned residents. That's why I am asking the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to reject this proposal.

Don't get me wrong, we need to have a reliable energy supply. But we also need to protect our environment. Many sensitive natural areas like wetlands, lakes and streams dot the Middle Tennessee countryside. These natural resources are the very reason people want to live in the region, and it's imperative we protect them.

If a new transmission line is truly needed in the area, there are plenty of existing rights-of-way to use. At the very least, a route should be chosen that affects the fewest landowners. But Midwestern Gas has a lot of work to do to convince me and residents in Sumner and Trousdale counties that a new transmission line should be built.

People who own farms, homes and businesses in the area are rightly concerned about any project that could adversely affect their quality of life. As the dean of the Tennessee congressional delegation and senior member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, I will do all I can to make sure their concerns are heard.

You can also express your concerns directly to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission by writing a letter to:

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission

Docket Number PF05-2

888 First Street NE

Washington, D.C. 20426

The agency will review these comments before making any decisions about the proposed pipeline. When you send your comments, be sure to include "Docket Number PF05-2" on both your letter and mailing envelope.