Franklin County supports pipeline

MASSENA — Franklin County will contribute $1,452,000 toward construction of a natural gas pipeline from Massena to Chateaugay.

St. Lawrence Gas is proposing a 48-mile natural gas pipeline, estimated to cost $20 million, that could serve about 4,000 customers. The Franklin County Legislature approved the expenditure at its meeting Thursday.

"It is a very strong statement by Franklin County that the natural gas project is definitely needed," James P. Ward, manager of company planning and strategic accounts, said Friday.

The proposed pipeline will extend south through the towns of Brasher, Stockholm and Lawrence before following Route 11 into Moira and Malone and over to the eastern Franklin County town of Chateaugay.

St. Lawrence Gas has earmarked $13 million toward the project, with the company seeking public funds to cover the remaining $7 million. About half of the money sought has been secured. State Sen. Elizabeth O'C. Little, R-Queensbury, secured $2 million in state money for the project, along with the Franklin County Industrial Development Agency giving $300,000. Mr. Ward said the company will focus its attention on securing funding from St. Lawrence County.