2.1 Overview of the Proposed Project - Keystone XL pipeline - US ...

Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact StatementKeystone XL Projectand associated facilities would then be erected. This would include installation of a block valveinto the mainline as well as two MLV block valves: one would be installed on the suction pipingof the pumps and one would be installed on the discharge piping of the pumps as required by 49CFR 195.260.The crude oil piping, both aboveground and below ground, would be installed and pressuretestedusing methods similar to those used for the main pipeline. After successful testing, thepiping would be tied into the main pipeline. Piping installed below grade would be coated forcorrosion protection as required by 49 CFR 195 Subpart H (Corrosion Control) and theapplicable PHMSA special conditions. In addition, all below-grade facilities would be protectedby a CP system as required by Subpart H and the applicable PHMSA special conditions. Pumps,controls, and safety devices would be checked and tested to ensure proper system operation andactivation of safety mechanisms before being put into service. After hydrostatic testing of thebelow-grade equipment, the site would be graded and surfaced with gravel and a security fencewould be installed around the entire perimeter of each site. Construction activities and storage ofconstruction materials would be confined to each pump station site. Figure 2.1.4-1 (providedpreviously) shows a typical pump station with pigging facilities. Figure 2.1.9-1shows a typicalpump station without pigging facilities.Mainline Valves and Delivery SitesMLV construction would occur during mainline pipeline construction. IMLV construction wouldbe carried out concurrently with the construction of the pipeline. Wherever practical, IMLVswould be located near public roads to allow year-round access. If necessary, permanent accessroads or approaches would be constructed to each fenced MLV site. The construction sequencewould consist of clearing and grading followed by trenching, valve installation, fencing, cleanup,and site restoration.2.1.10 Construction Schedule, Workforce, and Environmental Inspection2.1.10.1 Schedule and WorkforceConstruction of the proposed Project would begin if Keystone obtains all necessary permits,approvals, and authorizations. As currently planned, the proposed Project would be constructedusing 10 spreads of approximately 45 to 120 miles long (see Table 2.1-18). Final spreadconfigurations and the final construction schedule may result in the use of additional spreads orfewer shorter or longer spreads. If Keystone obtains all permits, approvals, and authorizations itanticipates the proposed Project to be placed into service in 2015.Table 2.1-18Representative Cross-Country Construction Times Based on Estimates ofScheduleSpread Length Pre-welding Welding TimePost-welding andClean-up Total Duration80 miles 21 days 75 days 49 days 145 days (21 weeks)90 miles 21 days 84 days 49 days 154 days (22 weeks)100 miles 21 days 94 days 49 days 164 days (24 weeks)120 miles 21 days 112 days 49 days 182 days (26 weeks)Project Description 2.1-62 March 2013