Koch Pipeline proposed the construction of a 210-mile natural gas liquids pipeline from Bayou La Batre, Alabama, to Belle Rose, Louisiana. Koch faced numerous challenges from both the private and public sectors, including environmental and construction issues. Of particular concern was the construction of the pipeline across Lake Pontchartrain, which had been legislatively protected by the Lake Pontchartrain Basin Foundation since the 1980s. The foundation had virtually halted all industrial activities in the lake for about a decade, and restoration efforts had been embraced by the city of New Orleans, the local media and the affluent residents of the New Orleans North Shore.
HDA helped Koch Pipeline facilitate its goals of generating public and private support of the construction of the pipeline; positioning itself as an environmentally responsible company; and securing the necessary right-of-way signatures and construction permits in a timely manner.
Koch Pipeline developed and implemented a governmental and public affairs communications strategy that anticipated and addressed issues associated with the construction of the pipeline, kept the dialogue open with key audiences and used third-party entities to champion the project among stakeholders, which included elected officials, regulatory agencies and the media. Personal visits, presentations and direct mail were the primary communications mechanisms used to deliver key messages.
The right-of-ways and permits were secured, the pipeline was constructed and the media coverage was positive. The success of this project has shown that economic development does not have to be at odds with environmental interests.
