Richardson Straddle Compressor Station - Gas Pipeline Facility in Cedar Hill, New Mexico

Richardson Straddle Compressor Station is a natural gas pipeline facility situated in San Juan County, New Mexico, approximately 18 kilometers west of Cedar Hill. The station plays a critical role in maintaining pressure and flow within the regional gas transmission network, serving the broader energy infrastructure of the southwestern United States. The facility operates under the regulatory oversight of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and complies with 49 CFR Part 192, which governs gas pipeline safety. As a compressor station, it is equipped with compression units that boost gas pressure to ensure efficient transport over long distances. The station's location in the San Juan Basin, a major natural gas producing region, underscores its strategic importance in gathering and transporting gas from production fields to downstream markets. Environmentally, the station's operations are subject to emissions controls and leak detection programs mandated by federal and state regulations. Its proximity to rural areas and waterways necessitates robust safety protocols to minimize risks. The facility contributes to energy reliability for communities and industries across the region, supporting the transition to cleaner-burning natural gas as part of the national energy mix.

The station is located in the semi-arid San Juan Basin, an area with significant natural gas production. Proximity to the San Juan River and its tributaries requires careful management of potential leaks or spills. The facility's operations are subject to PHMSA regulations on cathodic protection and pipeline integrity to prevent corrosion-related incidents. Local air quality concerns are addressed through emissions controls on compressor engines.