By the OGJ Online Staff
HOUSTON, Sept. 24 -- Colonial Pipeline Co., Atlanta, Monday said it would expand its delivery system to Knoxville and Chattanooga, Tenn., boosting fuel supplies 10-15% for those metropolitan areas.
The pipeline said the improved service, which amounts to 630,000 gal/day, was prompted by growth in the East Tennessee, southeast Kentucky, and western North Carolina markets.
Dave Lemmon, Colonial president and CEO, said, "We've been impressed by the region's strong economic and population growth and by an accompanying increase in demand for petroleum products. As the demand in Knoxville grows beyond this increase in service, we have the ability to further expand our delivery system."
The expansion complements previously announced plans to increase service to North Alabama and Middle Tennessee.
Colonial said the Knoxville upgrade would involve installation of larger pumps in Atlanta, where the Knoxville line originates, and at a booster station in Rome, Ga.
Colonial delivers 83 million gal/day of petroleum products. The pipeline originates in Houston and terminates at the New York harbor.