For Release: Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

COSTELLO APPLAUDS FINAL PERMIT FOR CONOCOPHILLIPS WOOD RIVER REFINERY EXPANSION

Washington - Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) today applauded the final permit approval for the expansion of the ConocoPhillips Wood River refinery, which will allow the facility to process Canadian crude oil and produce a wider variety of fuels. The $2 billion project will employ an average of 1,500 workers and up to 2,500 during construction, and will support 100 new full-time jobs when completed. Costello worked with ConocoPhillips and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency during the approval process.

“This is tremendous news for the region and the nation,” said Costello. “The Wood River refinery expansion is a major step forward, allowing for more production and increasing our national supply of transportation fuels with strong environmental protections, setting an example for the entire industry. In addition, this is a significant investment in our region, producing good-paying jobs and supporting other businesses. ConocoPhillips has pursued this project with great dedication, and I look forward to continuing working with company officials and local leaders as the project proceeds.”

###