The U.S. Supreme Court is set to hear arguments on a proposed railway project that would connect Utah’s Uinta Basin, known for its oil production, to Colorado. This railway would transport crude oil, extending rail lines by 88 miles and allowing oil exports to refineries on the Gulf Coast. The case, scheduled for Dec. 10, could impact how the government handles environmental reviews for similar projects.
The Uinta Basin Railway faced a setback when a U.S. Court of Appeals found that the initial environmental review did not fully address risks like wildfire or water pollution. The Seven County Infrastructure Coalition, which supports the railway, is asking the Supreme Court if those risks are necessary for federal review.
Supporters, including Utah’s Governor Spencer Cox and several Republican senators, believe the project will boost Utah’s economy by allowing more oil to be transported. The railway could carry 350,000 barrels per day, much more than local refineries can handle. However, critics, including environmental groups, local Colorado governments, and Democratic lawmakers, argue the railway could harm air and water quality, especially along the Colorado River, which supplies drinking water to millions of people.
One concern is the risk of oil spills, which could damage the environment and the economy, particularly for communities dependent on the river. Colorado’s Glenwood Springs city council member, Jonathan Godes, warned that a derailment could harm the economy and water supply for millions. Environmental groups also argue that the federal review did not consider all possible risks, like spills or accidents along the route.
In August 2023, the D.C. Circuit Court ruled that the environmental review was insufficient, asking for more detailed analysis. Now, the Supreme Court will decide if the review should be limited to certain risks or include a broader scope of potential impacts. Environmental advocates worry that the current conservative majority on the Court could restrict the types of risks considered in future reviews.
Despite the challenges, the Seven County Infrastructure Coalition remains hopeful that the project will go forward, believing it will be beneficial for Utah and the broader region.