PA Environment Digest

At the invitation of Sen. Gene Yaw (R-Lycoming), Sen. John Rafferty (R-Montgomery), Majority Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee, visited central Pennsylvania this week to learn more about the Marcellus Shale industry.

Sen. Yaw organized the presentation and tour to show how the industry is impacting transportation services and needs.

"The gas industry is growing quickly and will have a major impact on many areas, including transportation," Sen. Yaw said. "This visit will help to give legislators and staff a chance to see a drilling operation first hand and learn more about the process and the related issues surrounding Marcellus Shale."

Sen. Rafferty joined Sen. Yaw for a presentation, followed by a tour of the Newberry Yard and transload facility.

"The Newberry Yard and transload facility is a prime example of using rail to take additional burden off our roadways," said Sen. Yaw.

Additionally, they had the opportunity to experience a first-hand look at a drilling rig, water withdrawal locations and pipeline construction in Lycoming County.

Sen. Yaw said Marcellus Shale drilling has been good for economic development, but also has a far-ranging impact on areas such as road and bridge maintenance, housing and job training.

"Our goal is to ensure that we are prepared to deal with all these issues and challenges as the industry grows and evolves," Sen. Yaw said. "I'm pleased that our transportation chairman, who plays a lead role in drafting transportation policy and legislation, was able to visit our area and take part."

Sen. Yaw added on May 11 the Senate Policy Committee will hold a public hearing on issues related to the Marcellus Shale pipelines at the Pennsylvania College of Technology in Williamsport. Among those scheduled to testify are representatives of pipeline companies, the PA Public Utility Commission, local governments and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

"Once again, this is a great chance for lawmakers and those in the industry to have a good dialogue and share information," Sen. Yaw said. "I'm pleased to be part of this effort, which will make for better public policy and a more effective regulation of this growing industry."

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