Syracuse (WSYR-TV) -- Hydrofracking is one of the most divisive issues in New York, but it wasn’t even mentioned during Governor Cuomo’s State of the State address. But that didn’t stop protestors from greeting the Governor in Albany on Wednesday.
Hydrofracking is the controversial method of drilling for natural gas that’s been on hold since 2008.
Thousands of people wielding signs and chanting lined the hallway leading up to the Governor’s address.
“Just the number of people will show that there are more people than they want to know that are really interested in the issue,” said opponent Todd Condelli.
Some oppose hydrofracking because of possible health concerns and environmental risks; others say it’s a science and science takes time.
"You know the gas has been stored there safely for thousands of years and it can wait. We don't have a safe way of getting it out, if we come up with a safe way, fine,” said Carol Kepack.
The crowd included about 70 hydrofracking opponents from Central New York, along with a much smaller group of supporters.
"People are getting taken over by emotion and the whole politics of the thing when, this is such a great opportunity for our country,” said Chris Pasto.
And despite the outcry, the Governor never made any mention of hydrofracking in his address. Apparently, one of the Governor’s aids says it wasn’t mentioned because the process is still under review.
