NESE Pipeline and Compressor Station
Summary
The NJDEP approved the air and water permits for Williams Transco's NESE project, allowing construction of a compressor station in Franklin and a pipeline under Raritan Bay. Residents asked the township to find local ordinances or zoning that could slow or stop construction and ensure compliance; the township attorney cited federal preemption but pledged to keep pressing the township's development-rights easement and legal options.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 3
- Last 30 days
- 0
Discussed at 1 meeting in the last 60 days; most recently Sep 8, 2026.
Impact analysis
Unknown direct township cost, but potential legal expenses and health/environmental risks to residents.
The fossil fuel energy supply chain, not local residents — speakers noted the gas is not intended for New Jersey.
Franklin residents face air quality, health, and environmental risks from the compressor station and bay dredging.
Mentions & discussions (2)
Franklin Township Council Work Session/Regular Meeting - Sep 8, 2026
The Third Circuit vacated the NESE pipeline's water quality certification — a major win after a 12-year fight. Separately, the council settled Transco's federal condemnation case for about $600,000, roughly 20 times the original offer, money the township keeps even if the pipeline is never built.
Franklin Township Council Work Session/Regular Meeting - Jan 13, 2026
The NJDEP approved the air and water permits for Williams Transco's NESE project, allowing construction of a compressor station in Franklin and a pipeline under Raritan Bay. Residents asked the township to find local ordinances or zoning that could slow or stop construction and ensure compliance; the township attorney cited federal preemption but pledged to keep pressing the township's development-rights easement and legal options.
We'll email you when it's on an upcoming agenda and when it's voted on, at most once a day.
The weekly brief for Franklin Township
What the council decided, in plain English — one email a week.
Free. Unsubscribe with one click any time. We never sell your email.