Opponents of a natural gas pipeline extension attempted to halt work on the project Monday in Essex.
A group of more than a dozen demonstrators attempted to disrupt work along Vermont 289 on Vermont Gas Systems’ proposed pipeline extension from Colchester to Middlebury, according to a news release from the group Rising Tide Vermont.
The group was protesting the work by Vermont Gas’ new contractor, Michels Corp., which the opponents say is responsible for problems with a portion of the Keystone XL pipeline project in the southern U.S.
“As a local builder, I want to see investment in construction that will serve Vermonters for decades to come,” carpenter Chris Schroth, said in a news release. “Contracting with out-of-state companies known for their work on dangerous, destructive projects like the Keystone XL pipeline shows a disregard for the environmental and safety standards Vermonters hold dear. We cannot continue to invest in fossil fuels, especially as we continue to see the impacts of climate change around the world.”
Michels recently replaced Over and Under Piping Contractors Inc., which is in a legal battle with Vermont Gas over what the company calls “a billing dispute.”
Vermont Gas officials said work was not affected by Monday’s action.
“Vermont Gas is committed to bringing the clean, affordable natural gas choice to more Vermonters and will do so safely and cost-effectively,” spokeswoman Beth Parent said in an email. “Today’s minor disruption posed a threat to the safety of those who were working on the project as well as the individuals who entered the work zone without authorization or safety gear. We are focused on safety and can report that no one was injured and work has continued on pace.”
Demonstrators said that construction equipment was “brought dangerously close to protesters.”
The state Public Service Board is currently weighing whether to reopen Vermont Gas’ certificate of public good for the project in the wake of escalating cost estimates.
