After “substantial and thorough reviews by technical staff” and “with careful consideration given to the significant public input received,” the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) today approved permit modification requests by Sunoco for a portion of its Mariner East 2 work in Chester County.
The permits relate to work in West Whiteland Township, Chester County, where the company proposed altering its horizontal directional drilling plans at two locations. DEP approved the plans, noting that the new approaches enhance environmental protections.
In response to DEP’s action today, please find copied below a statement from the Pennsylvania Energy Infrastructure Alliance. Feel free to quote me, Kurt Knaus, as PEIA spokesman:
Statement:
“DEP’s thorough review and acceptance of these permit modifications are proof that the regulator and Sunoco both acknowledge the need to alter construction plans in this area to ensure the safety of the environment and community. This project was legally permitted and continues to abide by required laws and regulations. And, DEP continues to fulfill its duty to the public as a strict regulator, ensuring, as always, that every voice is heard. Mariner East 2 is 99 percent complete, and soon Pennsylvania will reap the countless benefits that increased pipeline infrastructure ensures.”