A contentious natural gas pipeline proposal that would terminate off New York’s Rockaway Beach has been revived for the fourth time, despite three previous rejections over water quality concerns. The Williams Company’s Northeastern Supply Enhancement (NESE) pipeline would carry fracked gas from Pennsylvania through New York Harbor, connecting to existing infrastructure off Long Island’s coast.

The project has faced consistent opposition from state environmental regulators, who warn that construction would disturb decades-old contaminants like mercury and copper from the harbor floor, threatening marine ecosystems and public health. Local residents like retired firefighter Ed Power, whose Breezy Point basement now floods regularly due to rising sea levels, view the pipeline as another threat to their already vulnerable coastal community.

The pipeline’s sudden fast-tracking has raised eyebrows among environmental advocates, who suspect political interference. Critics point to the Trump administration’s brief halt of a $5 billion offshore wind project, which was mysteriously lifted after alleged negotiations with New York Governor Kathy Hochul. While Hochul denies any quid pro quo arrangement, consumer groups have called the situation a “political shakedown.”

Economic analyses suggest the pipeline would cost ratepayers $1.25 billion while providing minimal long-term benefits to New York. Utility companies argue the infrastructure is needed for energy security and to power planned data centers, but experts question whether projected demand will actually materialize. As the public comment period proceeds without the usual hearings, environmental groups worry that political considerations may override scientific evidence that previously justified the project’s rejection.