The Atlantic Coast Pipeline formally filed its application to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Friday in order to move forward with building the $5 billion natural gas pipeline. In a press release, Jim Norvelle at Dominion says surveyors have completed surveying about 85 percent along the proposed route. It would provide gas to various customers, including ACP, allowing transport from supply areas in Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia. It would run from Harrison County, WV, southeast through Virginia with an extension to Chesapeake, VA, and south through central North Carolina to Robeson County. “60 roughly public meetings, talking to thousands of landowners, other interested parties, local governments, trying to find the best route for a really essential project for Virginia and for North Carolina”, said Chet Wade, a spokesman for Dominion.

It has the backing of the governors of Virginia and West Virginia. A coalition of environmental and conservation groups oppose the plan.

The 30,000-page application includes environmental reports and exhibits on the hotly-debated route of the line.

Dominion is the lead partner in the Atlantic Coast Pipeline, owing 45 percent of Atlantic Coast Pipeline, LLC. “We are committed to excellence in every aspect of this important project”.

Federal regulators must examine factors including public safety, air quality, water resources, threatened and endangered species, and reasonable alternatives.

If it’s approved, construction would start in late 2016 with completion by late 2018. Dominion’s transmission subsidiary would oversee the project’s construction, operation and facility maintenance.

The pipeline will be 42 inches in diameter in West Virginia and Virginia, and 36 inches in North Carolina.