Annie Rabbitt and the Millennium Pipeline

To the editor: On Nov. 13, 2004, my neighbors and I learned that the arbiters of The Public Convenience and Necessity, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and the Columbia Gas Transmission Corporation would visit Laurel Ridge, a small subdivision in the town of Tuxedo to dig the Millennium Pipeline. This 30-inch, high-pressure, interstate gas transmission line would be placed into the granite below our community. The line would pass within 50 feet of residences. The line would encircle 37 families. A mishap would prevent access and exit to Laurel Ridge. Damage to the line would endanger families and overwhelm emergency responders. The construction of this line would make the community of Laurel Ridge unlivable. We formed the Northern Tuxedo Residents’ Association to move the pipeline out of Laurel Ridge. On Jan. 27, 2005, Columbia hosted an informational meeting concerning the proposed pipeline project. There I met Assemblywoman Annie Rabbitt, who offered her help. She met with residents of Laurel Ridge. She visited Laurel Ridge. She hosted meetings between the residents and government officials. She walked with us in the snow along a proposed alternate pipeline route. She used her office to help us gain access to those who could influence the routing of the gas line. On Jan. 20, 2006, Columbia Gas Transmission Corporation announced an agreement of a proposed alternate route around Laurel Ridge for the placement of the Millennium transmission line between itself, The Palisades Interstate Park Commission and residents association. Annie Rabbitt’s support was crucial. Her future support will help make the proposed change to the routing of the Millennium Pipeline a reality. Donald Blum, Interim President Northern Tuxedo Residents Association