Below grade like all pipelines not built in permafrost areas.
Approximate mileage for pipeline
The Keystone XL is a proposed 1,179-mile (1,897 km), 36-inch-diameter crude oil pipeline, beginning in Hardisty, Alta., and extending south to Steele City, Neb.
and rail
To where? Once you load on rail most will haul it to markets not served by major pipelines because the oil is worth more in those locations, like NJ refineries. It also cost significantly more to move it this way. It is not a real apples-to-apples comparison.
Rail.; To where?
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I was assuming Cushing OK based upon the quotes in the article.
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The chief executive of TransCanada said Wednesday if the Obama administration doesnt
approve the controversial Keystone XL pipeline his company will look to the more
dangerous alternative of building build rail terminals in Alberta and Oklahoma.
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Girling said theyll consider building a rail terminal in Hardisty, Alberta where
the pipeline would have started. He said he will also consider building an
import terminal in Cushing, Oklahoma, site of the biggest U.S. oil storage hub.