PORTLAND (AP) – The Coast Guard says waters leading to a proposed liquefied natural gas terminal in Robbinston are suitable for tanker traffic provided that steps are taken to reduce risks.

The determination followed a review that focused on navigational safety in Head Harbor Passage, Passamaquoddy Bay and other waters leading to the $400 million terminal that Downeast LNG wants to build at Mill Cove.

The Coast Guard’s findings were issued in a letter to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, which is using it to prepare a draft environmental impact statement.

Downeast LNG President Dean Girdis applauded the Coast Guard’s decision, calling it a significant milestone in the federal approval process that gives momentum to the project.

AP-ES-01-07-09 1824EST