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News from everywhere *but* Central New Hampshire.

Propane Company Reaches Deal On Controversial Expansion

Emily Corwin

A Newington company that wants to transport propane by rail on the Seacoast has reached an unexpected deal with neighbors who have stood in opposition to the project for two years. 

The tentative agreement limits railcar traffic and includes fire safety measures paid for by SEA-3, which hopes to bring in American propane over tracks between Newfields and an expanded facility in Newington. 

For two years residents and cities along the tracks - as well as the Great Bay Stewards - fought against the project, for fear of rail explosions. Rich DiPentima lives along the tracks. "This is better than what we would have gotten if we did nothing," he says.

Attorneys on both sides of the conflict were more celebratory. Alec McEachern, who represents SEA-3, called it "a good day for the citizens of NH who use propane."

Friday morning, all objecting parties will agree to withdraw their concerns before the state's Site Evaluation Committee in exchange for SEA-3’s concessions. 

Later that afternoon, the committee will decide if SEA-3 can begin its expansion immediately. 

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