Most New Yorkers have heard of the Spectra natural gas pipeline and the dangers it poses – but until recently, it’s felt like a vague, far-off worry that may or may not happen. Unfortunately that couldn’t be further from the truth, as the pipeline (also referred to as NJ-NY Expansion Project) is already in progress and is set to be complete this fall, bringing with it the very clear and present danger of exposure to radon (a known cancer-causing radioactive gas) and high-pressure gas explosions. The pipeline is being built directly underneath Manhattan’s West Village, and residents in the area are very concerned about the possibility of flammable water coming out of their taps as seen in the video after the jump. Their arguments are not unfounded – in 2012 alone, there were 244 pipeline incidents resulting in 10 deaths and over $180 million in damages.
