Plans to build a Natural Gas Pipeline from Eunice to Texas
The new pipeline is answering a need. Crosstex Energy Services is building the 130 mile natural gas line from Mont Belvieu, Texas to Eunice. Eunice Chairman of Economic Development Don Reber remembers the need for oil and gas after the BP crude disaster.
"The interior land was pretty much running out of oil. This pipeline is enabling us to bring some of these resources back into the area to support our industries up and down the Mississippi and along the Gulf of Mexico," said Reber.
The pipeline, known as the Cajun Sibon Expansion Project will connect to already existing lines that already extend as far as the Mississippi River. It'll transport 70,000 barrels of natural gas a day.
"It's gonna give us fuel reserves to supply heating needs and any other energy type needs," said Reber.
"Every time I see a dollar sign I get excited," said Eunice Mayor Rusty Moody.
Moody says the project will create six new jobs in Eunice, each with a yearly salary of $90,000.
"You employ more people they get a paycheck and spend more money. They spend more money, they pay taxes on what they spend," he said.
Repairing and Expanding the Crosstex Eunice Plant means more opportunities for local businesses.
"They'll have additional employees once the plant is up and running. Right now, they're using Louisiana Crane to make their additions and repairs," said Moody.
Construction starts sometime this year, and the new pipeline will be operate early next year.
The Eunice Economic Development committee also plans to create student-run development programs in high schools.Students will attend economic development meetings and contribute ideas. The committee hopes it'll encourage students to stay and work in Eunice after graduation.
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