Residents Urge Somerset County to Oppose Williams Transco Northeast Supply Enhancement Plan

Two residents speaking during the public‑comment period on July 22 asked the Somerset County Board of Commissioners to oppose the Northeast Supply Enhancement (NSE) project and a proposed Williams Transco compressor station known as CS‑206, which would be sited in Franklin Township.

Linda Powell of Franklin Township said the project, previously rejected in state and federal processes, has resurfaced and that the company is seeking expedited approval. “There may come a time when we need open space for growing food,” Powell said in prepared remarks that urged county opposition to the pipeline and compressor station. She highlighted potential health impacts tied to emissions and cited prior penalties and safety fines connected to the company, and urged labor and community leaders to review the company’s safety record.

Carol Keane, a nearby property owner whose land borders the proposed CS‑206 site, requested the board once again pass a resolution opposing the project. Keane said the site abuts an active Trap Rock quarry, farms and a Superfund site that Transco proposes to use for construction access; she also raised concerns about noise, air and water pollution, effects on forest habitat and potential methane emissions from compressors and pipelines. Keane said local community groups opposing the project are seeking the board’s support and thanked the county for prior assistance.

Why it matters: The NSE proposal involves pipeline upgrades and a compressor station that residents say would be sited near residential areas, religious centers and agricultural land in Franklin Township and adjacent municipalities. The project raises local land‑use, public‑health, environmental and transportation concerns that fall partly within county planning and permitting channels and partly under state and federal regulatory jurisdiction.

Limits and next steps: Neither county staff nor commissioners offered a formal response or vote during the public‑comment period at the work session. Residents asked the board to consider adopting a resolution opposing the project; the transcript does not record a motion or committee action on that request at the July 22 meeting.

Ending: Residents who wish to join local opposition groups or seek more information were encouraged by speakers to contact township task forces and local advocacy coalitions working on the matter.