By Ryan N. Boyer, Business Manager
Laborers’ District Council of Metropolitan Philadelphia and Vicinity
Labor Day marks the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions that workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country.
In these unprecedented times, there is even greater respect and appreciation for workers. And while Labor Day 2020 may look different because of COVID-19, skilled laborers with the Laborers’ International Union of North America (LIUNA) are working just as hard.
LiUNA stands as one of America’s preeminent construction trade associations, representing 500,000 members across the country and more than 25,000 members in Pennsylvania alone. Since 1903, LiUNA has advocated tirelessly for working families and the opportunities that ensure their right to obtain safe, living-wage jobs and allow them to thrive.
Many of those opportunities exist within Pennsylvania’s diverse energy sector. Projects like the Mariner East pipeline network have been a lifeline for Pennsylvania residents to lifelong, family-supporting careers. Energy is essential, and laborers who build our energy infrastructure are just as essential.
LiUNA members are in the field every day – rain or shine, hot or cold, pandemic or no pandemic – using their skills on one of Pennsylvania’s largest infrastructure projects. This is our office, and we work with dedication and conviction, and without complaint or cutting corners.
The Mariner East system comprises Mariner East 1, Mariner East 2 and Mariner East 2X, all of which support the Marcus Hook Industrial Complex in Delaware County. Together, these pipelines and related assets have created thousands of good-paying construction jobs for LiUNA members and other trades. They also connect our entire state – literally and figuratively – by supporting continued production in the shale fields in western Pennsylvania.
The value of the Mariner East system isn’t isolated to workers. These workers are also Pennsylvania residents whose communities are benefiting from the estimated economic impact of this vast network valued at $9.1 billion.
Laborers we recognize on Labor Day will be working to keep electricity and utilities running even as many enjoy a three-day weekend. Pennsylvania’s economy is powered by energy development and related infrastructure, and the men and women of LiUNA are an important part of building and maintaining these systems.