A coalition of 16 western state groups rallied in southern Oregon on Wednesday to demonstrate its support for the long-stalled Jordan Cove liquefied natural gas (LNG) export project and connecting transmission pipeline at Coos Bay.

Representatives from the newly formed Western States and Tribal Nations (WSTN) said at a FERC hearing in Medford they support the development, now being reconsidered. The Consumer Energy Alliance helped organize the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission hearing.

Colorado, Utah and Wyoming officials said the proposed $8 billion terminal and pipeline would help carry their states’ gas supplies to overseas markets.

Calgary-based Pembina Co. spokesperson Paul Vogel, whose company is developing Jordan Cove, said there was a “strong turnout” at the FERC hearing. The WSTN’s “commitment is a clear demonstration of the positive ripple effect Jordan Cove will have for all of the western United States,” he said.

The state representatives understand the benefits of gas production, Vogel said. “It is an important message for Oregonians and FERC.”

Western Slope producers and their supporters have pushed for FERC to approve the project, which would be the first export facility on the U.S. West Coast.