Montgomery County is seeing an increase in pipeline construction as Texas maintains more than 483,000 miles of pipeline statewide. County Judge Mark Keough says local leaders will closely monitor new projects, citing last year’s controversy over the proposed Blackfin compressor station near Conroe.
Montgomery County is witnessing an increase in pipeline construction, contributing to the extensive network of over 483,000 miles of pipeline that spans across Texas, as reported by state data.
In Texas, the majority of pipelines are installed underground, facilitating the transportation of oil, natural gas, natural gas liquids, and refined products including gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. The Texas Railroad Commission oversees the regulation of pipelines, which vary in diameter from 3 inches to 42 inches.
County Judge Mark Keough emphasized the importance of local officials closely monitoring pipeline projects, noting that while most have minimal impact on residents, vigilance is crucial — particularly in light of last year's controversy surrounding the proposed Blackfin Pipeline compressor station.
In October, Blackfin officials abandoned their plans to construct a compressor station off Interstate 45 near Grand Central Park, responding to significant opposition from local residents and business owners. In a significant development, the decision was made just one day prior to the scheduled discussion by the Conroe City Council regarding the potential rescindment of permits granted for the station.
“Pipeline projects will require careful oversight as more information emerges,” stated Keough. He highlighted that counties do not possess direct regulatory authority over pipelines, as these are permitted and regulated at the state level by the Railroad Commission.
Keough stated that he is not aware of any ongoing projects that involve a proposed compressor station in Montgomery County. “I cannot endorse the establishment of compressor stations in proximity to residential neighborhoods or densely populated commercial zones, citing safety concerns, noise disturbances, and potential impacts on quality of life,” he stated.
Currently, the Railroad Commission has yet to finalize pipeline routes or pinpoint potential locations for compressor stations, according to Keough.
Advocates from various industry sectors contend that pipelines continue to be the safest and most efficient method for transporting energy products. The Texas Pipeline Association asserts that pipelines represent the “safest, most reliable, efficient and economic means” for the transportation of natural gas, crude oil, and refined petroleum products. The association reports that a 20-inch pipeline spanning 50 miles can transport the equivalent volume of 1,650 tanker trucks. This development is expected to alleviate congestion, lower emissions, minimize road damage, and reduce traffic accidents.
In the 1930s, Texas became the pioneering state to implement pipeline safety regulations. During the 1970s, legislation was passed granting the Railroad Commission the authority to implement federal minimum safety standards. Texas has implemented pipeline integrity management programs that necessitate both physical and visual inspections to guarantee safety and reliability.
Montgomery County is witnessing the ongoing construction of several pipeline projects.
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