Pipeline Seeks Public Input on Desert Expansion
Published Date: 7/9/2026
Notice
Summary
Transwestern Pipeline Company plans to expand its pipeline in Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona, and the government wants your thoughts on how this might affect the environment. They’re asking for public comments by August 5, 2026, to help decide if the project should move forward. This is your chance to speak up about possible changes and how they might impact local communities and nature.
Analyzed Economic Effects
6 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Landowners: Easements and Eminent Domain Risk
If you own land near the planned route, Transwestern may contact you to negotiate an easement to build and operate the pipeline. You do not have to agree, but if the Commission approves the project the company could start court condemnation (eminent domain) proceedings and a judge would determine compensation under state law.
Large Construction Footprint Across Three States
The project would build a 48-inch mainline stretching 526.5 miles plus 181.5 miles of laterals, new compressor stations, and meter stations, using a 150-foot-wide construction right-of-way for the mainline and 75–90 feet for laterals. Construction will require temporary construction workspace and some permanent right-of-way in Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona.
Possible Environmental Effects to Local Areas
FERC will study environmental effects the project could cause, including water use and effects on aquifers, safety and emergency response, light pollution, impacts to wilderness areas and the San Pedro River Valley, threatened and endangered species and migratory birds, and cultural resources. These are the issues FERC staff explicitly identified for analysis in the environmental review.
More Natural Gas Capacity to NM and AZ
Transwestern says the expansion would provide firm transportation of up to 2.3 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d) of natural gas from the Permian Basin to customers in New Mexico and Arizona and would upgrade the Phoenix Lateral for bi-directional flow. The company states the project is meant to serve growing demand for gas-fired electric generation and deliveries to local distribution companies.
You Can Comment — Deadline and Scoping Sessions
The public can submit written or oral comments to FERC; comments must be received by 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time on August 5, 2026. In-person scoping sessions are scheduled July 21–30, 2026 at listed Arizona and New Mexico locations, and virtual sessions are scheduled July 30, 2026 (6:00–8:00 p.m. MDT) and August 3, 2026 (12:00–2:00 p.m. MDT).
Right to Intervene After Formal Application
Once Transwestern files a formal application, members of the public may seek intervenor status. Only intervenors are official parties who can request rehearing of FERC’s decision and be heard in court on appeals of the Commission’s final ruling.
Your PRIA Score
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Sign up for a PRIA Policy Scan to see your personalized alignment score for this federal register document and every other regulation we track. We analyze your financial profile against policy provisions to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-13883 — Combined Notice of Filings #3
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission got several new filings from energy companies like Light Energy and Beacon Solar about approvals and rate changes. These filings could affect how electricity is bought and sold, with some changes kicking in as soon as July 7, 2026. If you’re involved in energy or just curious, keep an eye out for public comments due by late July and possible impacts on energy prices.
2026-13882 — Combined Notice of Filings
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission got several filings from natural gas companies about rate changes, record updates, and penalty reports. These updates could affect customers and businesses using these pipelines, with some new rates and agreements starting as soon as early July 2026. If you want to comment or learn more, deadlines are coming up fast in mid to late July.
2026-13770 — Grid Growth Ohio, LLC, Grid Growth Ohio EHV, LLC; Notice of Institution of Section 206 Proceeding and Refund Effective Date
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission is checking if Grid Growth Ohio’s new pricing plan is fair or not. This affects customers and companies using their electricity rates, with possible money refunds starting July 8, 2026. If you want to speak up, you’ve got 21 days to join the conversation and make your voice heard!
2026-13776 — Increasing Market and Planning Efficiency Through Improved Software; Second Supplemental Notice of Technical Conference on Increasing Market and Planning Efficiency Through Improved Software
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission is hosting a technical conference on July 7-8, 2026, to explore how better software can make energy markets and planning smarter and more efficient. This affects energy grid operators and market participants who rely on improved tech to forecast and manage power better. While no specific cases will be decided, the talks could influence future rules and investments in energy software.
2026-13772 — Freeport LNG Development, L.P.; Notice of Scoping Period Requesting Comments on Environmental Issues for the Proposed Regasification Terminal Disconnect Project
Freeport LNG wants to remove some facilities on Quintana Island, Texas, and the government is asking the public to share their thoughts on how this might affect the environment. If you live nearby or care about nature, now’s your chance to speak up before August 3, 2026. This feedback will help decide if the project moves forward and how it might impact the community and environment.
2026-13680 — Combined Notice of Filings
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission got several new filings from natural gas companies about pipeline rates and refunds. These filings could change how much some companies charge or refund customers, with some changes starting as soon as July 1, 2026. If you’re involved with these pipelines or rates, keep an eye on comment deadlines in mid to late July to have your say!
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-13879 — Agency Information Collection Activities: Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request
NARA is asking to bring back a form that helps veterans and certain applicants find special job opportunities without competing in the usual way. They want your thoughts by August 10, 2026, before the Office of Management and Budget decides. This process won’t cost applicants money but helps match people with jobs faster and easier.
Next: 2026-13881 — GR Catalyst Two, LLC ; Notice of Revised Procedural Schedule
GR Catalyst Two, LLC’s hydroelectric project schedule just got a fresh update! Key steps like acceptance, public comments, and environmental reviews now have new target dates between September and November 2026. This keeps the project moving smoothly and on track, so everyone involved knows when to expect important updates and decisions.