Chesapeake begins construction of a drillsite (or padsite if drilling more than one well from a common pad) before commencing drilling operations. We build drillsites utilizing as small an area as possible that will safely accommodate the drilling rig and associated equipment. Natural topographic features and environmental factors are also considered during the construction and grading of a site.

The construction and grading process typically lasts four to six weeks. Throughout this time, we use Best Management Practices such as installing secondary containment or diversion berms (land barriers) and other safety and environmental protection measures. Each of our sites is permitted and regulated by federal and/or state and local agencies as appropriate.

In addition, Chesapeake is committed to maintaining and improving public roads in our operating areas. We work closely with state and local highway departments to ensure public safety and to provide safe conditions for the public and truck traffic associated with our operating activities. We prepare maintenance and improvement plans four times a year to identify construction or repair needs in our operating areas. Chesapeake has invested almost $250 million to improve approximately 350 miles of roads in Pennsylvania in the last two years, employing local companies, such as engineering firms and contractors, to complete road improvement work.​​​​​