Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Gives OK to Spectra Compressor Station

WEYMOUTH, MA — A project vehemently opposed by residents and local officials has received approval from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

A conditional certificate was issued by the FERC for Spectra Energy's Atlantic Bridge project, which includes a 7,700-horsepower station compressor station near the Fore River Bridge in North Weymouth.

"Although I am disappointed FERC ignored the many numerous issues and concerns raised by Weymouth residents and me regarding the North Weymouth natural gas compressor station project proposed as a part of Atlantic Bridge, FERC's decision to allow the project to move forward is no surprise," Mayor Robert Hedlund said in a statement.

Hedlund added that the town will seek reconsideration before FERC, a step that must be taken before they can seek a redress in court.

Residents in Braintree, Quincy, and Weymouth have protested the project, citing health concerns and the location near a densely populated area.

In their ruling, federal regulators said the construction of the station is "not expected to have a significant impact on air quality in the project area," the Boston Globe reported.

There's still a long road ahead for Spectra, who still needs several environmental permits from the state before building the station.

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