Western Mass residents protest proposed natural gas pipeline

SPRINGFIELD, MA (WGGB/WSHM) — Local residents gathered Thursday evening, protesting a proposed gas pipeline in our area.

Dozens of local residents, organizers and advocacy groups showing out to Stearns Square on Thursday, expressing concern for the climate and economic costs this infrastructure would bring.

The proposed pipeline route passes through residential neighborhoods in Springfield, some near school buildings.

Protesters at the rally said accidental methane leaks and operational venting from gas infrastructure can exacerbate ozone pollution, ultimately increasing asthma cases in the city

Instead of this proposed pipeline, advocates tell Western Mass News they’re looking for cleaner, more cost-effective solutions, such as upgrading Springfield homes and businesses to efficient electric equipment, such as heat pumps.

“It is not actually reliable, it is not actually safer, and it doesn’t benefit us it will just make our gas bills go higher and make our air quality worse,” said Naia Tenerowicz, a member of the Springfield Climate Justice Coalition

Protesters also tell Western Mass News accidental methane leaks and operational venting from gas infrastructure can worsen ozone pollution.

Also, according to the environmental advocates, risk increasing asthma cases in a city already known for its asthma crisis, “methane gas which is what this pipeline would be carrying is a contributor to asthma, it contributes 15 percent to asthma cases every year in Massachusetts. It’s even more toxic to children. Springfield already has enough pollution here, we cant afford anymore,” Jess Nahigian, an environmental advocate.

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