News

The CT Department of Energy & Environmental Protection (DEEP) recently made an important and commendable decision: to undertake a full Environmental Impact Evaluation (EIE) of a proposal from Yankee Gas Services Company d/b/a Eversource Energy, which is seeking approval to modify two existing electric transmission easements to allow construction of a 16-inch diameter, 199-psig natural gas pipeline across portions of Hurd State Park and the Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park Trail. The original easements were granted for electric and communications infrastructure — not gas transmission — raising questions about scope, impacts, and long-term implications for public lands.

The decision follows the public scoping process held on September 9, 2026 centering on a key question: whether the potential environmental impacts of the proposal were sufficiently understood, or whether a deeper review was warranted under the Connecticut Environmental Policy Act (CEPA). A cornerstone of CT environmental law, CEPA requires state agencies to evaluate and address potential environmental impacts of proposed actions — and to conduct a more detailed EIE when those impacts remain uncertain.

Concerns raised by the public, including CLCC and other conservation organizations, community members, and other stakeholders, focused on the significant conservation values at stake including wildlife habitat and biodiversity protection, wetlands, vernal pools, and water resources, recreational opportunities, and scenic and historic resources.

CLCC was particularly concerned that Natural Diversity Database (NDDB) information documents the presence of multiple state-listed species within the project area, including endangered species and species of special concern. These findings underscore the need for deeper analysis, careful planning, and robust mitigation strategies. (See, for example, NDDB Maps for East Hampton, Haddam, and Middletown).

State parks and other public lands are held in trust for the people of Connecticut. When proposals arise that could affect these lands, and the public benefits they provide—particularly when impacts are not fully understood—a comprehensive EIE is not just appropriate. It’s essential.

Choosing to conduct a full EIE reflects a commitment to due diligence, sound science, and responsible decision-making. We commend DEEP for taking this thoughtful and measured step. 

For more, read CLCC’s full comments submitted following the public scoping process:

Comments on Notice of Scoping for Proposed Modification of Easements to Allow a 199-psig Natural Gas Distribution Pipeline Within Portions of Hurd State Park and Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park Trail