On behalf of Kinder Morgan, Trans Mountain Pipeline ULC is proposing to expand the Trans Mountain Pipeline System between Strathcona County, Alberta (near Edmonton) and Burnaby B.C. If approved, the proposed expansion would create a twinned petroleum pipeline system with triple the capacity of the existing system.
The oil tanker traffic from this expanded pipeline would travel from Burnaby, through the Haro Strait, and past Victoria, en route to the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
Trans Mountain states that—
Currently in a typical month, five vessels are loaded with heavy crude oil at the Westridge Marine Terminal (in Burnaby). The expanded system will be capable of servicing 34 Aframax class vessels per month, with actual demand influenced by market conditions.
Before the expansion can proceed, the National Energy Board is holding a public hearing. They will then make recommendations to the federal government, who will decide whether or not to approve the proposal.
Victoria Council applied for and received intervenor status which offers the opportunity to submit questions and evidence, and present an argument on whether or not the project should be approved to the Board.
The National Energy Board has identified 12 issues that will be considered during the hearing. Of particular significance to the City of Victoria in its response to Trans Mountain’s proposal is issue #5:
“The potential environmental and socio-economic effects of marine shipping activities that would result from the proposed project, including the potential effects of accidents or malfunctions that may occur.”
In preparation for the hearing, we are gathering the community’s input to ensure your views are reflected in the City’s response to the pipeline expansion. The City is also accepting evidence from experts in our community, to include with the submission.
We Want to Hear from You!
Here are two ways to have your say:
- Complete this survey here
- Email pipeline@victoria.ca with your comments.
Please note, all comments must be received by October 31, 2014.
For further information about the Trans Mountain proposal:
