Sierra Club
Redwood Chapter Newsletter
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Mare Island Vallejo vs. Bechtel/Shell LNG Facility Kenn Browne | |
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In April of this year, Bechtel/Shell came to the City of Vallejo to propose a feasibility study of a Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) facility on the southern end of Mare Island. Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) is natural gas that has been chilled to 260 degrees Fahrenheit, turning it into a clear, colorless and cold liquid. The proposed project would include a dock for carriers, LNG storage tanks, a plant to 'regassify' the LNG and a pipeline. The project would be located in reuse areas on Mare Island which have been zoned for Open Space, Recreation and Shoreline Access. A regional park has been planned for this area since 1994 when Mare Island Naval Shipyard's closure was announced. Tankers would transport the LNG from Indonesia and other parts of Asia. They would bring the LNG to Mare Island passing under the Golden Gate and the Richmond-San Rafael Bridges several times a week. These tankers have a 1000 foot safety zone around them which would impact ferry service to and from Vallejo, oil tanker and shipping traffic through the Carquinez Strait, and vehicular traffic on the two bridges. At first the City welcomed B/S with open arms, touting the proposed power plant as a critical boost for Vallejo's economy. Safety issues then became a major concern for residents of Vallejo. Several citizen groups have formed to fight the LNG plant, and it has become a regional issue as well. At recent, well attended meetings, opponents of the power plant have persuaded the city not to sign an exclusive agreement with B/S to study the feasibility of this proposed project. Instead, the city has arranged for B/S to fund an independent safety study headed by the Vallejo City Fire Chief. The feasibility study is on now hold, and the whole issue is becoming a political hot potato. Solano Group is working to keep the southern end of Mare Island zoned and protected for Open Space, recreation and public access. Anyone who has been on this portion of Mare Island can understand this zoning. Mare Island Hill is the highest point on Mare Island and is visible from much of Vallejo, Crockett, and the San Pablo Bay. The view of the Carquinez |
and Mare Island Straits from the top of Mare Island Hill is unparalleled. All other promontories overlooking the Carquinez Strait from Solano County have their views severely impacted by intrusive development. The unobstructed view from Mare Island Hill is a treasure to protect. As the Final EIR/EIS for the Disposal and Reuse of Mare Island Naval Shipyard states: "This is an especially sensitive view area because of its visual quality and its location at the entrance to both Mare Island and Carquinez Straits." Public access along the Strait, and the integrity of Mare Island Hill and its stunning views must be preserved. Solano residents watch for mailings announcing important upcoming meetings on the LNG issue, or come to our Executive Committee meetings. (Dates listed in the Solano Group calendar.) What You Can Do: Contact Vallejo City Leaders and request that this project be stopped:
For more info: solanobreeze@yahoo.com or 553-1653; or Vallejo Community Plan Renewal 707 642-8277. |