The city of Peoria has filed a petition to intervene in the construction application for a carbon capture pipeline.
The new proposed route for the Wolf Carbon Solutions Mount Simon Hub pipeline no longer runs through the city's south side.
That route proved controversial among residents and environmental advocates who said a pipeline rupture in the city could prove disastrous. High concentrations of carbon dioxide can cause asphyxiation, though pipeline advocates say stringent safety protocols would be in place.
City deputy corporation counsel Chrissie Kapustka said in a filing that though the pipeline route has changed, the Peoria Fire Department would still likely be called to assist to any pipeline incidents in the county. The fire department's hazardous material and technical rescue teams would also likely be called upon to assist in other counties along the pipeline route in the case of an emergency, she said.
The petition to intervene allows the city to participate as an active party in the application process that's before the Illinois Commerce Commission.
Other groups like the Illinois Agricultural Association have also claimed an interest in the case and filed motions to intervene.
The Illinois Commerce Commission has until May 16, 2024 to act upon the construction application.
