Rural Communities Push Back Against Pipeline Project

Chatham County, North Carolina residents oppose Enbridge’s proposed pipeline that risks low-income health equity.

Chatham County, North Carolina—a rural area with 85,000 residents and 21% population growth since 2016—has blocked Enbridge Gas North Carolina’s 28-mile pipeline project from Moncure to Siler City. The pipeline, which would connect to existing infrastructure, faces opposition from residents who fear concentrated hazardous infrastructure in communities where per capita income is $25,000 annually. Enbridge’s history of pipeline incidents—including 122 fatalities and 600+ injuries since 2010—raises health risks for vulnerable populations. While the county board voted unanimously to oppose the project in September 2026, permit applications remain pending with the state environmental agency. The pipeline’s potential impact on low-income residents and the county’s existing health inequities represent a growing friction point in energy access. This development could worsen health disparities if the project proceeds, as Enbridge claims the pipeline meets energy demands for Chatham and Lee Counties. The source provides only this detail: the project remains in development with no federal approval yet. The source provides only this detail: the project remains in development with no federal approval yet.

Source: KFF Health News