Piedmont nonprofit warns residents about potential natural gas pipeline construction in multiple counties

In Lexington, about 20 people attended a meeting hosted by 7 Directions of Service, a nonprofit with a history of fighting pipeline construction in the Piedmont. 

The organization is concerned about the risks posed by Williams Companies’ Transcontinental Pipeline Southeast Supply Enhancement Project. 

The Fortune 500 company is proposing the construction of a 28.5-mile-long pipeline running through Rockingham, Guilford, Forsyth and Davidson counties.

Nancy Thomas, a Wallburg resident in attendance, recently found out she lives within the project’s buffer zone, or the area that could be affected by the pipeline’s construction.

"I was like, what does that mean and what can we really do about this?  How is it gonna affect the environment, the neighborhood, the property values," Thomas said.

Exposure to even small amounts of methane coming out of hard-to-detect leaks can lead to nausea, fatigue, respiratory issues and even central nervous system damage. 

A Williams spokesperson said the company actively engages with landowners in efforts to reduce disturbances and minimize environmental impact.

Santiago Ochoa covers healthcare for WFDD in partnership with Report For America. Follow him on X: @santi8a98