Columbia Gas of Massachusetts has deployed more than 200 construction crews and 3,000 workers to the Lawrence, Massachusetts, area to restore gas service after the Sept. 13 gas line explosions.
The goal is to have all gas service restored by Nov. 19, the company said.
One person died and about 25 were injured as a result of the explosions that hit 39 homes in the Lawrence, Andover, and North Andover areas, also known as the Merrimack Valley. It left about 9,000 people without gas service. Over-pressurized gas mains caused the explosions. However, it is not clear what caused the over-pressurization.
The restoration plan calls for the installation of gas main lines and service lines, as well as the installation of gas meters that measure and regulate gas flow to homes and businesses.
“We’ve been working with partners at every level of government, with our first responders and departments of public works in our planning efforts to rebuild the system,” Joe Albanese, chief recovery officer at Columbia Gas, said. “Our early actions, supported by the National Guard, helped meet some immediate community needs. Now we turn to our current effort in support of the primary mission – to restore gas service to homes and businesses.”
Construction crews will install main gas lines that bring gas into the area and connects to homes and businesses. Specifically, they will install approximately 45 miles of pipeline and 6,100 service lines. They will also visit all homes in the area to assess and test natural gas lines for safety.
“As we continue to support those in need, we are now unveiling our planned path to restoring service and will be sharing our plans and progress as we move forward. We know it takes actions, not just words, to show our commitment,” said Pablo Vegas, chief restoration officer for NiSource, the parent company of Columbia Gas.
Columbia Gas of Massachusetts provides natural gas to over 320,000 customers in southeastern Massachusetts, the greater Springfield area, and the Merrimack Valley.
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