New Jersey Governor Seeks Adjacent Coastal State Status for Safe Harbor Energy LNG Project
Governor Jon Corzine (D-N.J.) has requested that the Maritime Administration (MARAD) grant New Jersey “adjacent coastal state” status in the regulatory review process for the Safe Harbor Energy LNG regasification terminal, essentially giving New Jersey equal standing to New York. Corzine’s request cites the fact that the proposal’s alternative pipeline route passes within 9 miles of the New Jersey coast, within the 15 miles set by statute, and claims that the project will have impacts on New Jersey’s waters and coastal areas.
However, local environmentalists suggest a double-standard at work, noting Gov. Corzine’s support for the Crown Landing LNG regasification terminal proposed by BP. Today’s Sunbeam (carried via NJ.com) provides additional details. Gov. Corzine’s request is available in the Department of Transportation’s docketing system under Docket No. USCG-2007-28535-69.
[Note: Pursuant to the regulations implementing the Deepwater Port Act, MARAD determines Adjacent Coastal State status, not the U.S. Coast Guard.]