While Line 3 Has Been Important to Northern Minnesota, Advocates Across Minnesota Point to the Broader Significance of the Project As It Nears the Completion of Construction Work

AFTER MORE THAN SIX YEARS OF REVIEW, CONSTRUCTION IS NOW MORE THAN 2/3^rd DONE AND REPRESENTS AN IMPORTANT MILESTONE FOR MINNESOTA’S ECONOMY

(ROCHESTER, MINN) From the start of the permitting process to review and approve the Line 3 Replacement project, people across the 14 Northern Minnesota counties where the line is being built have been strongly supportive of the project, in part, because of the economic impact it represented. But others across Minnesota who support Line 3 say the fact the project was permitted and is nearing completion is benefiting the entire state at a key time for Minnesota’s economy.

“Too often it seems that Minnesota is a place where it is difficult for important yet complex projects to get through the permitting and approval process,” said Greg Gallas, a Minnesotans for Line 3 supporter from Olmsted County. “In such a charged time, the fact permits were issued, billions are being invested here, and work is moving forward is incredibly vital. Line 3 sends a message that things here can still happen that move our state forward – even at such a challenging time. We could only wish all companies were as responsible and giving to communities.”

The first phase of construction work started last December and the second phase began in June and is now employing close to 5,000 workers. Enbridge is investing more than $2 billion of private-sector dollars to replace the 337 mile section of the pipeline. The process started in 2014 during the Obama-Biden Administration and the Line 3 project is now the most reviewed pipeline project in Minnesota history.

“For many it was frustrating that the process took so long, but seeing Line 3 get approved and attempts to challenge the permits fail validates the project,” Gallas said. “For projects around Minnesota, this gives us all hope that we can still get things done in a way that creates jobs and protects our environment. Many of us live far away from where Line 3 is being built but strongly support it because of how necessary it is and what it can mean for future projects.”

While protestors often get more media attention, there is strong, statewide support for Line 3. There are people in every county in Minnesota who actively support Line 3. Just recently Minnesotans for Line 3 delivered over 6,000 postcards and messages of support to Governor Walz to thank him for making sure permits were issued and that work continues.

Project supporters have attended dozens of meetings, sent in tens of thousands of supportive comments to regulators, made thousands of calls to elected officials, and taken other actions. While there has been strong support in Northern Minnesota, Gallas said the statewide support is widespread.

“This is an important time for Minnesota, our economy and our environment,” Gallas said. “It is often said ‘the world is run by those who show up.’ When it comes to Line 3, people like me and so many others have made sure we not only show up but stay engaged to make sure the project gets done.”

Contact: Susan Goudge
Susan@Minnesotansforline3.com | 218-556-3617

We can’t afford to wait any longer for Line 3

“It’s long overdue for those making decisions in this state to pause and look at the facts. We cannot afford another appeal. Too much time and taxpayer dollars have been used to repeatedly determine that Line 3 is necessary.

If we do not approve Line 3 and get started soon, the people of Minnesota will deserve an explanation about why the most studied pipeline project in our state’s history – that literally checks every box – was stalled at a time when our economy needs it so much.”

Rich Siegert, Rochester Post Bulletin

Minnesota needs Line 3 project

“Let’s get one thing clear: Minnesota needs Line 3.

Replacing Line 3 will bring thousands of jobs to our state at a time when we desperately need it. While our legislature stalls on a bonding bill and other forms of relief, how about Governor Walz and his administration making an easy decision to stop delaying a project that will bring thousands of jobs to northern Minnesota?”

Craig Gaasvig, Grand Forks Herald

Nearly six years to replace Line 3 is too long

“My family has farmed in Clearwater County for 85 years. As farmers, we take pride in our land and work hard to take care of the soil and water around us. We also take very seriously planning our farming operations, including rotating our crops and maintaining our equipment.

For 48 years, we’ve hosted six pipelines on our property and have always had a good relationship with the company. In 2014, we received a letter from Enbridge about the company’s intention to replace its Line 3 pipeline. Since that initial letter, we’ve worked with Enbridge on the easement for the replacement pipe and have considered our farming plans to accommodate construction.”

Brian Emmel, Bemidji Pioneer

Support Minnesotans by supporting Line 3

“In trying times like these, you would think local governments would try to work together to get things done. The fact of the matter is, they can’t — or they won’t. The gridlock in our state house is at an all-time high, and neither side seems willing to concede anything to the other. You would think they would care more about the people than these political chess matches; but for the most part, that’s not the case. Minnesota needs jobs more than ever — as well as the hope that things can get better. As we struggle with COVID19, the changes it has forced upon us have left too many of our businesses to drop like flies, with more people applying for unemployment every day.”

Dave Langfeld, Duluth News Tribune

Letters to the Editor Supporting Line 3:

We can’t afford to wait any longer for Line 3

Minnesota needs Line 3 project

Nearly six years to replace Line 3 is too long

Support Minnesotans by supporting Line 3

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