Spectra Gets Authorization to Build Gas Pipeline in West Roxbury

Spectra Energy can now begin construction of sections of a natural gas pipeline in Boston’s West Roxbury neighborhood after receiving authorization from the Federal Energy and Regulatory Commission (FERC).

FERC granted the company the necessary permission needed to begin placing pipeline under Washington, Grove and Centre Streets.

The five-mile pipeline, known as the “West Roxbury Lateral,” is a smaller section of the Algonquin Incremental Market Pipeline. It’s slated to be built near an active blasting site, which has drawn great opposition from residents and city officials.

Spectra’s pipeline also runs through Dedham and Westwood. Construction in those towns began back in June. Dedham’s portion of the pipeline is being conducted on East Street and the Providence Highway.

Dedham selectman Mike Butler was arrested while protesting the project’s construction.