A gas pipeline replacement project that could bring as much as $5 million in economic impact to Anderson County is still awaiting approval from federal regulators before it can break ground early in 2020. The Southern Star Central Gas Pipeline project will install 32 miles of new gas line from Welda to Ottawa and remove two existing lines. Communications Specialist with Southern Star Tyler McClure says they are hoping to begin construction in February. The $145 million project will have both temporary and lasting economic impacts on the area, with over $2 million estimated in lodging business for local providers and nearly $1.5 million in additional restaurant business from workers on the project.
The project overall will generate around $2.2 million in sales tax, with a projected property tax payment increase to the county of $1 million per year. Similar impacts were expected in Franklin County as well. The new pipeline will replace two existing pipelines with a 36-inch high capacity line.
