Shale gas pipeline to Northeast progresses, much to some landowners' dismay

The 124-mile Constitution Pipeline will likely bring some relief from relatively high natural gas prices to residents of New York City and New England. But it will also bring anguish to many landowners in the wooded hills and valleys in its path.

Some will be unable to build retirement homes they had been planning, or subdivide and sell building lots because of the pipeline's route through their property. Others are dismayed at the clear-cutting of treasured forest.

But many communities support the project for the jobs, taxes and gas it will bring.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission signed off on the $700 million project in December. Still needed are permits from the state Department of Environmental Conservation and Army Corps of Engineers.

The company plans to start digging trenches and laying pipe in early summer.