CLINTON TOWNSHIP – Columbia Gas of Ohio is set to begin a routine pipeline replacement project in Clinton Township this week, and will hold a virtual Q&A about the work on Tuesday, Dec. 1, at noon.
The project will replace older cast iron pipe with new and improved plastic piping that is better suited for temperature changes and has lower maintenance costs. The new plastic pipe also has enhanced safety features. Work will occur in the Buckeye Addition Neighborhood and affect Harrison, Roosevelt, McKinley and Cleveland avenues, and part of Pattison Avenue.
The Mount Vernon News spoke about the project with Benjamin Cutler, who handles external affairs for Columbia Gas of Ohio.
"(The) project was slotted for completion this year; due to (concerns over) COVID-19, we had to temporarily pull the project," Cutler explained.
The work was able to resume, however, thanks to stringent precautions followed by Columbia Gas workers.
"We are cognizant of COVID-19," Cutler said. "Our work is viewed as essential. Workers are following strict guidelines from the CDC, utilizing PPE and social distancing. We are working to make sure we prioritize safety."
Cutler said the work could be temporarily halted again if the state's COVID threat level increases to the purple level.
Cutler noted that while preconstruction has already begun, the project to replace the pipeline should continue through the spring of next year, although additional restrictions imposed by the State could slow progress.
On paper, Columbia Gas is the lead company for the project. But in reality, Columbia Gas is utilizing workers from Mid-Ohio Pipeline Services.
Cutler made it a point to say that Columbia Gas understands any reluctance on the part of local residents toward the project.
"We ask residents to reach out to us if they have any questions or concerns regarding the project," he stated.
If you have further questions, contact Brian Cutler, external affairs specialist, at 216-215-4103 or via email at bcutler@nisource,com. He can also be reached on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bencutler.coh/
To access the virtual Q&A on Tuesday, Dec. 1, at noon:
Video Link: https://nisource.webex.com/meet/bcutler
Conference Line (Toll): +1-203-607-0564
Conference Line (Toll Free): +1-866-692-3580
Passcode: 173 694 5189
