The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has authorized a 55-mile natural gas pipeline expansion through Virginia and North Carolina, despite community opposition.

On Jan. 29, FERC issued a certificate allowing the Southeast Supply Enhancement Project to move forward. The project consists of 31 miles of pipeline in Pittsylvania County, Virginia, and Rockingham County, North Carolina, as well as 24 miles of pipeline in Guilford, Forsyth, and Davidson counties in North Carolina.

The proposed route would cross more than 150 stream and wetlands, according to the Sierra Club. In North Carolina, the cities of Midway, Lexington, and Greensboro and Forsyth, Davidson, and Guilford counties have all passed resolutions opposing the project.

“FERC’s decision ignores the vocal opposition of thousands of people along the proposed route … who are tirelessly fighting against this dangerous project,” said Caroline Hansley, a campaign organizing strategist for the Sierra Club.