RE: DEQ’s Draft Virginia Water Protection (VWP) Individual Permit No. 25-127; Tentative Upland 401 Quality Certification No. 25-001 

Dear Secretary:

I am adding my name in support of the Southeast Supply Enhancement project as it seeks critical permits from the DEQ. This system enhancement will help meet skyrocketing demands for affordable energy, as it is designed for a capacity increase that will ultimately help move domestically sourced gas to millions of American homes and businesses

We have seen widespread support for natural gas investment in our region. In fact, a 2025 study found that 80% of Triad and southern Virginia residents agree: enhancing our natural gas infrastructure is essential for meeting our growing energy needs amidst household economic challenges.

My support for this project also reflects Local 798's respect for Williams's ongoing commitment to being a good community partner. Williams clearly recognizes the Southeast Supply Enhancement project is not just about energy; it’s about keeping costs low for families, creating good-paying jobs for local craftsmen, and securing access to reliable, affordable energy across the region. This is of particular importance for large scale projects such as this and it includes working with community members and industry experts to identify potential environmental issues or concerns and then to potentially modify the project design to further minimize possible impacts.

At a high level, I support the Southeast Supply Enhancement project for the following key reasons:

• Increase enough natural gas pipeline capacity to meet the needs of 8.6 million homes;
• Prompt southern utilities to build new gas plants, opening the region to a generational investment in natural gas while strengthening grid reliability;
• Create good jobs for skilled industry craftsmen, many of whom are long-time members of Pipeliners Local 798;
• Generate critical economic activity across Virginia and neighboring states within the project footprint.

The Southeast Supply Enhancement Project is designed to deliver affordable, reliable and domestically sourced natural gas to communities across the region. I hope the DEQ issues necessary permits without delay. 

Signed,

**By signing this petition, I agree to share my name on Pipeliners Local 798's submission(s) to federal and state decision makers in support of the Southeast Supply Enhancement project.**