Sunoco’s construction of the Mariner East 2 pipeline was already controversial when three commissioners brought a lawsuit on behalf of Chester County, Pennsylvania, requesting a permanent injunction against the company to halt construction of the pipeline on property owned by the county.
At issue is the method used to construct the pipeline. In 2017, Sunoco and the county reportedly agreed to a supplemental permanent easement that would allow the company to construct part of the pipeline on Chester County Library property, but only if it did so using a method of bore drilling. Approximately a week and a half ago, the company allegedly informed the county that it intended to begin construction on the section of the pipeline that would cross county property and use an open trench, which is more traditional in pipeline construction.
Commissioners had concerns that not only did the proposed open trench construction method violate the agreed-upon terms between the county and Sunoco but that it could also pose a risk to county citizens. They, therefore, deemed it necessary to file the lawsuit against Sunoco to put a halt to construction across county property to prevent any possible adverse effect on public safety. Representatives for Sunoco were not available for comment.
As of now, there is no date set for a hearing on the matter to take place. When there is a question regarding the legality of a construction project, it may be a good idea for the property owners, contractors, architects or engineers involved to consult an attorney.
