Selecting a Route

The process of siting a natural gas pipeline is comprised of many variables. Federal regulations require that the pipeline company conduct numerous studies and analyze a number of alternatives before filing an application. Companies are strongly encouraged to consider routes along existing rights-of-way, roadways and other utility corridors.  

Williams identified several potential route alternatives for constructing facilities that will be required as part of the Central New Jersey expansion project. The company's goal has been to work with the community, property owners and other interested stakeholders to evaluate the potential routes and select the route that minimizes the impact on the community and the environment.

In December 2003, Williams began contacting local public officials and community members to introduce them to the proposed expansion. An important part of this process involves sharing information about the potential expansion routes and soliciting feedback from the community (PDF, 810 KB). The company received valuable stakeholder feedback and after considerable review, selected the route with the least amount of residential and environmental impacts, as the company's "preferred route."