FERC to Review Environmental Impact of Williams NY Pipeline

Federal agency seeks public input on Constitution Pipeline and Wright Interconnect project linking Pennsylvania gas to New York markets.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 8:51pm

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A geometric abstract illustration using bold shapes and primary colors to conceptually represent natural gas pipeline infrastructure and energy distribution networks.FERC's environmental review of the proposed Constitution pipeline aims to balance energy needs with ecological concerns.NYC Today

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) announced it will prepare an environmental analysis for the Williams Cos.' Constitution pipeline project and the related Wright Interconnect project, which would transport natural gas from Pennsylvania to upstate New York. FERC is requesting public comments on the potential environmental impacts of the projects as part of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) review process.

Why it matters

The Constitution pipeline has been a controversial project, with the Trump administration previously supporting it as a way to lower energy prices in the Northeast, while environmental groups have raised concerns about its potential impacts. FERC's environmental review and public input process will help determine whether the projects can move forward.

The details

The Constitution pipeline would involve 30-inch-diameter natural gas pipe in Pennsylvania and New York, providing up to 650,000 dekatherms a day of additional natural gas transportation capacity to markets in New York and New England. The Wright Interconnect project would enable gas delivery from the end point of the Constitution pipeline to the interstate pipeline systems. The projects would disturb 1,871.5 acres of land for the pipeline and aboveground facilities.

  • FERC issued the notice requesting public comment on April 8, 2026.
  • The public comment period is open until May 4, 2026.

The players

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC)

The federal agency responsible for regulating the interstate transmission of electricity, natural gas, and oil.

Williams Cos.

An American energy company that operates natural gas infrastructure, including the proposed Constitution pipeline project.

Iroquois Gas Transmission System

A natural gas pipeline system that would connect to the Constitution pipeline through the proposed Wright Interconnect project.

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What’s next

FERC will prepare an environmental analysis for the Constitution pipeline and Wright Interconnect project based on the public comments received by the May 4th deadline.

The takeaway

FERC's environmental review and public input process will be crucial in determining the fate of the controversial Constitution pipeline project, which has faced opposition from environmental groups but support from the Trump administration as a way to lower energy prices in the Northeast.