The company planning to build a controversial natural gas pipeline through West Roxbury is seeking an order from a federal judge that would give it eminent domain power to seize land, a move opponents say is a slap in the face given their ongoing discussions about the project.
“We thought we had some level of cooperation, but apparently with this move they’re not going to cooperate, they’re going to push ahead,” said U.S. Rep Stephen Lynch.
Algonquin Gas Transmission, a Texas company owned by Spectra Energy, plans to build a pipeline through West Roxbury, Dedham and Westwood. Algonquin said in a federal complaint this week that Boston has refused to give the company permanent and temporary rights to areas under city streets that the company is entitled to.
“It is unsurprising, however disappointing that this is how Spectra is trying to literally ram this project down our throats,” said City Councilor Matt O’Malley. “It’s another example of their behavior and the contempt to which they treat the community.”
Lynch, O’Malley and Mayor Martin J. Walsh, along with a number of residents along the proposed route, are pushing Spectra to change the location of a metering station that they say is too close to an active blast zone in a quarry.
“The mayor is pursuing all avenues with the federal government to protect the health and safety of the residents of West Roxbury,” said Bonnie McGilpin, a spokeswoman for Walsh. “The mayor’s office is currently reviewing the lawsuit.”
Susan Waller, a spokeswoman for Spectra, declined to comment on the complaint, but said, “We are continuing to work with the city of Boston. We hope we can come to a resolution.”