GATESVILLE, Texas — The signs at the Texas Station Event Center in Gatesville weren't the only things loud, conversations echoed through the room as residents voiced their concerns about the proposed DeLa Express.
The DeLa Express is a natural gas transportation pipeline, which could potentially move through Central Texas, impacting properties along its path.
The DeLa Express project plans to offer 2 billion cubic feet per day of new liquids-rich natural gas transportation capacity. Additionally, the pipeline will feature five lateral pipelines and eight compressor stations, one of which is proposed for Coryell County.
Debbie Vanous, a resident preparing for a possible fifth pipeline to be added to her property, expressed her worries at Thursday's open house meeting.
"There's going to be a different impact for us if it's on the Northside... If it goes to the South side, it's not as impactful," she said, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding the project's route.
Vanous attended the meeting seeking answers and potential solutions. "Our hands are tied... I want to keep our land. I want to be able to enjoy nature," she said.
John Woolver echoed Vanous's worries, emphasizing the need for better communication from the project team.
"I don't want a pipeline within 50 -- 100 yards of my house. It affects my property value," he said.
As the project continues to unfold, residents are calling for increased transparency and community engagement from the authorities overseeing the pipeline's development.
"People need to pay attention to stuff like this. And if you do get a letter of contact because it's not going to go away," Woolver cautioned, urging fellow residents to stay informed and engaged in the decision-making process.
If approved, construction of the pipeline would begin in 2026, and be in service in 2028.
If you are interested in providing comment about the proposed project you can call 1 (832) 924-5011 or email DeLaExpressProject@erm.com.
You can also make a comment here. The docket number for the DeLa Express Pipeline is PF24-4-000.