New Haven Harbor. Photo: Christian Hinkle via Shutterstock
May 7, 2020 (BOSTON, MA) – Conservation Law Foundation (CLF) has submitted a letter questioning Gulf Oil’s plans to modify its waterfront oil storage terminal in New Haven, Connecticut. The company is currently applying for permits to alter the facility to accommodate a new, approximately 7-million-gallon oil storage tank.
“This terminal sits directly in harm’s way and is already a terrible threat to the health of surrounding communities,” said Brad Campbell, President of CLF. “This facility was severely threatened by storm surge and floodwaters in Superstorm Sandy, and an ill-conceived expansion plan will invite catastrophe. Gulf must recognize the reality of the climate crisis and ensure that a facility in this location can withstand the impacts without dumping oil and other toxic materials into New Haven Harbor.”
The Gulf terminal sits nearly at sea level in a FEMA flood zone, and it is especially vulnerable to flooding from storms as well as sea-level rise. CLF’s letter raises significant questions about Gulf’s ability to ensure the safety of the facility moving forward. You can read a PDF of the letter.
CLF experts are available for further comment.
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