Conroe Residents Celebrate Win as Blackfin Pipeline Moves Compressor Station Plan

In response to extensive public concern and a court ruling from Montgomery County that halted its operations, Blackfin Pipeline has decided to move its proposed natural gas compressor station from its initial location near Interstate 45 in Conroe.

The declaration signifies a significant triumph for the Bartholet family and residents who contended that the project presented safety and health hazards to the community.

The proprietors of Bartholet Furnishings, situated adjacent to the proposed location, initiated legal action earlier this year, asserting that the facility contravened land covenants designed to safeguard against disturbances, noise, and pollution-generating activities. The area is conveniently located within 5 miles of various businesses, neighborhoods, and I-45.

On Tuesday, crews began clearing heavy machinery from the site—a development that visibly eased residents' concerns.

“We have been hoping for this moment to arrive,” stated Sarah Bartholet Gwin, whose family spearheaded the resistance. “Our entire family has truly—we’re dining together again, and we are resting well again.”

In September, a district judge in Montgomery County issued a temporary injunction halting construction and specific testing activities, determining that the planned compressor station would violate restrictive covenants. “It’s been incredibly significant for our family and has felt like a nightmare,” Gwin stated. “A multitude of hopes have been fulfilled.”

Blackfin Pipeline has officially announced the relocation in a statement provided to Conroe city officials last month, referencing “further discussions” with its leading shipper and “consideration of the community’s concerns.”

“Blackfin has announced a decision to relocate the Conroe Compressor Station,” the company stated. “We are eager to engage in a cooperative effort with the City of Conroe to guarantee the safe, dependable, and thoughtful functioning of the Blackfin Pipeline.”

The company asserted that the original location complied with all legal and environmental regulations, yet it announced plans to choose a different site “considering the unique circumstances.”

The City of Conroe also confirmed the information in an Oct. 8 statement, noting that it had been preparing to revoke all previously issued permits tied to the project. “The city engaged experts and dedicated resources to take a strong approach in revoking the permits,” the statement indicated.

City officials stated that the staff who participated in the project’s approval “are no longer employed with the City” and acknowledged residents for their efforts in raising awareness. “The City acknowledges the committed actions of our community members in gathering signatures, participating in Council Meetings, and highlighting the possible risks associated with the compressor station.”

Blackfin’s pipeline, which received approval from the Texas Railroad Commission in 2023, is set to extend from Colorado County to Jasper County.

‍