Over the past four years, Chevron has worked with the city of Richmond to plan a major equipment upgrade at the company’s Richmond refinery. The upgrade would install newer, cleaner technology and equipment to improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions.
A lawsuit recently filed by activist groups (enviro-nuts) – Communities for a Better Environment, West Contra Costa Toxics Coalition and Asia Pacific Network – has stopped project construction, forcing the layoff of 1,300 workers and leaving another 700 jobs unfilled.
Prior to beginning construction on the upgrade, an extensive multiyear environmental review of the project was conducted by experts hired by the city and with oversight from the Bay Area Air Quality Management District. The environmental review confirmed that the project would reduce emissions and improve air quality in Richmond.
The project also would have created 2,000 construction jobs at its peak, pumped $75 million into the local economy and provided an additional $61 million in community and environmental benefits through an agreement with the city.
Chevron is Richmond’s largest employer and taxpayer – providing more than 2,500 jobs and paying millions in taxes.
While Chevron is appealing a court decision on the lawsuit, the future of the project is in question. It is unfortunate that a few voices have left Richmond waiting for a more modern refinery, thousands of new jobs and millions of dollars in support to help its people realize a better future.
Check out this video…