Washington, D.C. - United States Representative Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) sent the following letter to Ms. Elizabeth Hewlett, Prince George's County Planning Board Chairman, Maryland National Capital Park and Planning Commission.
September 21, 2005
Ms. Elizabeth Hewlett
Prince George's County Planning Board Chairman
Maryland National Capital Park and Planning Commission
Case No. ROSP SE-245/06
14741 Gov. Oden Bowie Drive
Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
Dear Ms. Hewlett:
I am writing to express my concern regarding Washington Gas’ application for the Chillum Natural Gas Storage Project.
As you know, on July 13, 2005, the Prince George’s County Planning Board staff recommended that the revision to the special exception to the existing Washington Gas facility be denied. That recommendation was primarily based on Washington Gas’ failure to provide adequate information, planning and comprehensive studies of the proposed project. That information has still not been provided to the community. Until it has been, it is my view that Washington Gas’ application should be denied.
Three thousand people live within 2000 feet of the proposed facility. Countless others use the West Hyattsville Metro station, which is only one-quarter mile away. Establishing an LNG terminal in such close proximity to a residential area carries significant environmental and public safety risks. The members of the surrounding communities deserve a proposal that addresses their safety and security concerns.
To date, Washington Gas has not submitted a hazardous material plan for review by the Fire Chief. Nor has it submitted an emergency safety analysis so that the Fire Department can study the emergency capability response time. Finally, Washington Gas has not provided adequate information regarding the hazards involved; the necessary safety and precautionary measures to prevent accidents and the impacts on the adjacent communities.
The Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation and others in the community have recommended alternative locations for an LNG facility. These alternatives should be thoroughly explored.
I urge Washington Gas to address the outstanding issues. I look forward to its response that addresses the fundamental public health and safety concerns of our citizenry and that examines every option for development of an LNG facility in our region.
Sincerely,
Chris Van Hollen
Member of Congress
cc: Tracye Funn
Washington Gas Light Company
Maryland Public Affairs Office
101 Constitution Avenue
Washington, DC 20080