Natural gas pipeline expanding in the midstate

(Undated) — The increase in natural gas production in Pennsylvania is spurring one company to improve its pipeline capacity in the midstate.

The $520 million Texas Eastern to Appalachia Market Expansion project involves improving segments that cross through Berks, Lebanon, Dauphin and Perry counties.

Spectra Energy Corporation is seeking federal approval of the upgrades along some 33.6 miles of existing pipeline.

Director of Stakeholder Outreach Marylee Hanley says the natural gas market demands more capacity.

“The project will also increase Texas Eastern’s capability by approximately 600 million cubic feet per day, enhancing its transportation security, flexibility and reliability,” Hanley says.

The buried pipeline, which has been in place for decades, is part of a larger natural gas distribution system that stretches from New England to the Gulf Coast.

Hanley says it’s not known when the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission could approve the project, but the company hopes to begin construction in the fall of next year.

StateImpact Pennsylvania has a closer look at pipelines in Pennsylvania.