Business and labor groups have joined together in Michigan in support of the proposed 1,179-mile Keystone XL Pipeline. Though the crude oil pipeline would not actually go through Michigan, the groups say that the state?s industries will grow because of the increased demand for local construction labor, equipment, and materials. The State Department, after more than 5 years, is nearing the end of its impact assessment and within months will make a final decision. Opponents say that the environmental damage, similar to the ?petcoke? refuse that has been seen on the banks of the Detroit River, is enough to make the case for ending the pipeline project before it begins.
See "Michigan business and labor groups call on President Obama to authorize Keystone XL Pipeline", Jonathan Oosting, MLive.com, October 8, 2013