Consumers Energy in Jackson says it’s updating its statewide natural gas system with 135 miles of major construction projects in 15 Michigan communities this summer.
The ongoing construction work will replace existing cast iron and steel pipelines, some of which are more than a century old.
More than 600 Consumers Energy employees and contractors are involved in the projects that are expected improve services to over 1.8 million customers.
“These projects are a visible demonstration of Consumers Energy’s commitment to delivering natural gas safely, affordably and reliably to our friends and neighbors who count on us,” says Holly Bowers, vice president of natural gas engineering and supply at Consumers Energy. “We focus on work that will have the most impact, ensuring that our natural gas system will be reliable for many more years.”
Consumers Energy is carrying out work in the following regions:
Southeast Michigan – 18 miles in Livonia, 18 miles in Warren, 7 miles in Bloomfield, 6 miles in Pontiac, and 2 miles in Royal Oak.
Flint – 10 miles in Flint, 6 miles in Owosso, and 2 miles in Fowlerville.
Saginaw/Bay City – Two projects in Bay City (8 and 9 miles), 5 miles in Saginaw, and 3 miles in Frankenmuth.
Kalamazoo – 12 miles.
Lansing – 14 miles in Holt.
Midland – 10 miles in St. Louis, 1 mile in Ithica, and 3 miles in Auburn.
The projects are taking place in addition to Consumers Energy’s Four Cities Metro Pipeline in southeast Michigan, a replacement of a major regional pipeline that will continue through this decade. The company also is carrying out local pipeline upgrades around the state this year.
Bowers encourages drivers to watch for crews who will be working along roads, which will remain open with occasional lane closures.
Consumers Energy is performing this work as part of its Natural Gas Delivery Plan, ensuring its system remains safe in all weather while costing the typical household less than $3 a day.
“We appreciate the patience of our customers as we carry out these upgrades in the coming months and continue to deliver natural gas reliably and affordably, regardless of what Mother Nature throws at us,” Bowers says.
For more information about Consumers Energy, visit ConsumersEnergy.com.
