Construction for West Path pipeline of Nova Gas Transmission Ltd. (NGTL) began on Aug. 6 from the Elbow River. Here in town, we will start to notice an increase in construction activity later in September.

Crews are in the process of implementing access, signage stockpile preparation, stripping and grading, explains the TC Energy communications team in an update provided earlier today.

Construction will progress from the south end of the project at the Elbow River moving northward toward Cochrane. The Bow River Horizontal Direction Drill (HDD) and construction through the Cochrane corridor and dog parks along Hwy. 22 are slated to begin in late September/early October. It is anticipated that activities in this area and north of the town and west of Sunset Ridge will be completed in early 2020.

"Construction crews are working closely with the Town of Cochrane and landowners along the right-of-way to minimize impacts and overall disturbance," explains TC Energy communications. "We appreciate their cooperation and patience and hope to complete the construction scope as quickly as possible."

Construction activity will largely take place between 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. from Monday to Saturday. That will change when the HDD takes place at the Bow River. Once started, the HDD will be done around the clock, seven days a week until completed.

Years in the planning, the  21.5 km pipeline loop received approval on Apr. 11 from the National Energy Board.

This route runs parallel to an existing pipeline utility corridor for about 6 km through Cochrane and continues south through Rocky View County for another 15 km, also paralleling existing infrastructure where feasible.

The expansion is part of a $2 billion upgrade program for TransCanada’s NOVA Gas system. This pipeline will supply southwest Alberta and connected downstream markets with natural gas produced in Western Canada. It is expected to be operation by next June.

It isn't the first pipeline travelling through Cochrane. TransCanada installed its first within town limits 57 years ago.

Besides the new 42" pipeline, there are two existing 36” high-pressure natural gas pipelines in the same pipeline corridor. To the west of these are a 4” high pressure mixed natural gas liquids line and a 6” high-pressure ethane line.

Positive impact on local economy

TC Energy construction crews are currently in and around Cochrane and will have a significant economic contribution to the town through creating demand for local goods and services, says TC Energy.

"This includes food and accommodation, hardware, industrial parts, automotive parts and servicing, fuel and more," explains their communications dept.

Once the pipeline is operational, the municipality will also be collecting annual taxes.

Pipeline construction contractors are selected through a competitive bid process. TC Energy works with them to provide local employment opportunities, says their communications dept.