The WPC joint venture (JV), comprising WhiteWater, MPLX and Enbridge, has reached a final investment decision to construct the Traverse Pipeline along the Gulf Coast.

This decision follows the securing of firm transportation agreements with investment-grade shippers.

The 36in pipeline, designed to transport up to 1.75 billion cubic feet per day (bcf/d) of natural gas, will run approximately 160 miles (257.5km) between Agua Dulce in South Texas and the Katy area.

The bi-directional Traverse Pipeline will source its supply from multiple connections including the Whistler, Blackcomb and Matterhorn Express pipelines.

The pipeline aims to enhance optionality for shippers by providing access to multiple premium markets.

The Blackcomb Pipeline JV will own the Traverse Pipeline, with WPC holding a 70% stake, Targa Resources 17.5% and MPLX 12.5%.

WhiteWater will construct and operate the pipeline, which is expected to be operational by 2027, pending customary regulatory approvals.

The WPC JV, owned by WhiteWater (50.6%), MPLX (30.4%) and Enbridge (19%), manages long-haul natural gas pipelines and storage assets from the Permian Basin to South Texas, connecting to liquefied natural gas export markets.

In a related development, MPLX announced in February that it will acquire the remaining 55% interest in BANGL for $715m from affiliates of WhiteWater and Diamondback Energy.

The BANGL pipeline system, which transports up to 250,000 barrels per day (bpd) of natural gas liquids from the Permian Basin to Gulf Coast fractionation markets, is being expanded to 300,000bpd.

This expansion is expected to be operational in the second half of 2026, with the Gulf Coast fractionation complex due to begin service in 2028.