NORFOLK, Va. (WVEC) — The Southside Connector Distribution Pipeline spans between Chesapeake and Norfolk, and some concerned citizens want the projected to be halted.
According to Virginia Natural Gas, the pipeline is 24 inches in diameter and runs for nine miles, buried at three feet underground. The company says the project is 76 percent done at this point.
But on Sunday night, concerned citizens went to the 757 Pipeline Safety Coalition in Norfolk to voice their concerns. Residents told us they think it's an environmental hazard, and they're also concerned about the possibility of a gas leak or explosion.
Maps show the pipeline will run underneath churches, schools, medical facilities, and homes.
"I'm concerned about the impact this pipeline is going to have, I'm right on the trail from what I'm seeing," said one resident, Kimberly Bray. "It's scary to know that there's real-life repercussions and that death could come from this.”
Bray said after learning more in the meeting, she's scared for her family, and she hopes Norfolk City Council hears her voice at an upcoming meeting to discuss the pipeline on November 20.
A Virginia Natural Gas spokesperson tells us the company's safety requirements are more strict than federal regulations, saying in a statement that "ensuring the safety of every family we serve is our highest priority. The Southside Connector is necessary to ensure that we can continue delivering gas to keep homes and businesses warm on the coldest winter days."