2/17/2017

West Goshen Township, in Chester County has filed a complaint with the Public Utilities Commission against Sunoco Pipeline, LP over the Mariner East pipeline.  The suit alleges a breach of an agreement with the township.

The Pipelines

Sunoco Pipeline, L.P.  in recent years repurposed a pipeline that used to deliver gasoline and other refined products from the former Sunoco Refinery in Marcus Hook, Pa (Delaware County) to a distribution point in Washington County, south of Pittsburgh.  That pipeline now flow the other direction, bringing Marcellus Shale products to Marcus Hook.  Sunoco is adding at least one other line called Mariner East II.

The Agreement with West Goshen

West Goshen negotiated a deal with Sunoco to protect the residents of West Goshen.  The deal was extensive and, among other things, required Sunoco to construct two remotely operated valves before the end of 2015.  The valves would permit the isolation of segments of the pipeline in the event of an emergency.  In addition, Sunoco agreed to limit its right to build above-ground facilities without first notifying the Township.  Lawyers from this firm relied on this agreement when negotiating additional protection for our clients.

The Alleged Breach

West Goshen alleges only one of the remotely operated valves has been installed.  In addition, it alleges an above ground valve for Mariner East II is being constructed, without notice, near Boot Road and Greenhill Road.  West Goshen has requested the PUC to issue an Order declaring a violation of the settlement agreement.  This firm is carefully monitoring the case.