Although an expanded Trans Mountain (TMX) pipeline would never run through this region, its completion would likely have a large impact on the overall Alberta economy, including in Mountain View and Red Deer counties.
Approved for a second time by the federal cabinet last week, the project calls for the expansion of the existing pipeline to triple its capacity.
The line takes Alberta crude oil to the B.C. coast where it is shipped by tanker to overseas markets.
Whether the expanded pipeline will be built and put into operation still depends on a number of factors, including whether those strongly opposed to the project will be able to stop it moving forward as they have vowed to do.
What is known is that a great deal of political capital is riding on the completion of the project, including for the newly-elected UCP government of Jason Kenney.
For his part, Kenney calls last week’s federal cabinet approval a good step.
“This approval is an important milestone for Alberta, and for Canada,” said Kenney. “The decision was made on the merits of the project that is supported by the majority of Canadians. Approving the TMX pipeline is a step forward for economic growth and prosperity.
“But approval is not construction and, regrettably, for far too long this project has been mired in uncertainty. TMX has been through countless months of consultation and a lengthy and rigorous review process. The immediate test is the start of construction, with shovels in the ground and real progress. Success will be measured by one thing alone: completion of this pipeline.”
Opponents, including B.C. Premier John Horgan, have reiterated their determination to stop the project moving forward.
“I am disappointed with the decision,” said Horgan. “We have made application to go directly to the Supreme Court of Canada (to appeal last week’s federal appeal).”
During the 2019 provincial election, Jason Kenney told voters that a UCP government would get pipelines built. That assurance was made and remains to be kept.
- Singleton is the Mountain View Gazette editor
