Permit Issued for Conoco Phillips

Go-ahead for bridge, pipeline over Colville River

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By Bill McAllister
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Story Created: Dec 20, 2011 at 8:56 AM AKDT

Story Updated: Dec 20, 2011 at 9:13 AM AKDT

It has been two years in coming, but Monday ConocoPhillips received the final permit needed to begin oil and gas exploration in the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, in a reversal, has given the company permission to build a bridge and a pipeline over the Colville River in NPR-A.

“That approval, then, is sufficient for those who will follow,” said Senator Lisa Murkowski. “…The path will be paved somewhat, rather than with each new application, you’re plowing new ground. That’s not the direction I think we want to take this.”

The decision was also hailed by Senator Mark Begich, Congressman Don Young and Governor Sean Parnell.

ConocoPhillips issued a statement thanking the governor, the delegation, Native corporations, the North Slope Borough and construction contractors for their support.

 

 

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