President Donald Trump signed a presidential permit on Thursday authorizing a major new oil pipeline from Canada into the United States, reviving portions of the canceled Keystone XL project.

The Bridger Pipeline Expansion, developed by Wyoming-based Bridger Pipeline LLC in partnership with Canada's South Bow, will transport up to 550,000 barrels of crude oil per day from the U.S.-Canada border through Montana and Wyoming to Guernsey. The 645-mile U.S. route largely follows existing pipeline corridors, with more than 70% of the path using those rights-of-way and 80% on private land; it avoids Native American reservations.

Trump signed the permit in the Oval Office, contrasting it with the previous administration's approach. "Slightly different from the last administration. They wouldn’t sign a pipeline deal. And we have pipelines going up," he said. Bridger executive partner Tad True called the authorization a step closer to reality.

South Bow, spun off from TC Energy in 2024, plans to use about 93 miles of idle Keystone XL pipe already built and permitted on the Canadian side near Saskatchewan. The original Keystone XL, approved by Trump in 2020, was canceled by President Joe Biden on his first day in office in 2021 over environmental concerns, leaving Canadian infrastructure unused after Alberta invested over $1 billion.

If completed, the project could increase Canada's crude exports to the U.S. by more than 12%, supporting the 4.4 million barrels per day already imported by American refiners. The three-foot-diameter line will carry heavy oil sands crude and other petroleum products to refining hubs via connections in Wyoming.

Bridger, which operates over 3,700 miles of pipelines, emphasized safety features including AI-based leak detection and boring under rivers. Spokesperson Bill Salvin noted emergency response plans, adding that pipeline leaks are rare.

Environmental groups expressed opposition, citing spill risks. Earthjustice attorney Jenny Harbine highlighted that pipelines can rupture and leak. True Companies, Bridger's parent, has faced penalties for past incidents, including a $12.5 million fine.

The project seeks firm shipper commitments for 450,000 barrels daily and requires additional state and federal environmental reviews. Construction could begin in fall 2027, with completion by late 2028 or early 2029, though legal challenges remain possible.