The province approved an amendment for a shorter route of the Prince Rupert Gas Transmission pipeline project.
On August 28, the Chief Executive Assessment Officer (CEAO) approved a new starting point for the pipeline 37 kilometres west of Chetwynd, instead of the originally certified Hudson’s Hope area.
The pipeline will run 172 kilometres alongside the Pine River Valley and Highway 97, and it will rejoin the existing route near Tudyah Lake.
The alternate route is shorter by 51kilometres compared to the original plan.
The province engaged with the public and eight First Nations over a period of nine months.
Some Nations, like Saulteau First Nations, supported the amendment, while others were concerned about the environmental impact of the pipeline.
The province added six new conditions to address concerns about caribou, grizzly bear, and cumulative effects.
The CEAO believes the new route will cause minimal changes to environmental effects.