The City of Richmond has raised a number of safety concerns with the proponent of the planned jet fuel facility on the Fraser River.
The city contends the Vancouver Airport Fuel Facilities Corporation, a consortium of airlines, does not adequately address some safety related issues, particularly in how the 80 million-litre, six fuel tank facility connects with the proposed marine terminal where Panamax-class tankers will unload the product.
Furthermore, the city has noted the tank facility does not have fire suppression equipment.
Also, the impact of a seismic event on the facility “has not been adequately explored,” states a city engineering report.
Another problem is the VAFFC’s plan to plant trees in front of the facility, next to the dyke. The city contends the trees can impact the integrity of the dyke.
The city noted the VAFFC did move the proposed pipeline to accommodate developers’ concerns in the Bridgeport area.
Meanwhile, Coun. Alexa Loo wants to make the best of the situation.
“We’re going to get it, let’s get the best benefits out of it,” she told Richmond city council on Monday.
Loo said there are benefits to the project.
“I know it’s really important to all of us that we protect our water, protect our fish and protect our farmland while at the same time having jobs and keeping people safe. The one thing the fuel pipeline will do is it will take 1,000 (fuel) trucks off the roads,” said Loo, also noting Vancouver International Airport provides tens of thousands of jobs.
VAFFC is in the process of a public information session as it applies for building permits for the tanks.
The session takes place Thursday from 4-7 p.m. at the East Richmond Community Hall at 12360 Cambie Rd. Questions and comments are encouraged via email, as well ([email protected]).
