Gas line upgrades are currently in full swing in the Lynnhurst neighborhood, as crews from Michels Corporation, hired by CenterPoint Energy, are on a mission to replace old natural gas service lines and relocate indoor meters to outdoor settings. The majority of this infrastructure facelift has taken place on Fremont Avenue S., spanning from 46th Street W. to 51st Street W. Additional streets like Aldrich Avenue S. between 47th and 50th Streets W., Bryant Avenue S. between 48th and 49th Streets W., Colfax Avenue S., and Emerson Avenue S. are also on the list, with work spaced out to about a block per week.

Residents can anticipate a heads-up via postcard outlining the project, then expect a CenterPoint Energy technician, with a proper ID, to drop by and try to schedule a convenient appointment time. "The customer will receive a CenterPoint Energy postcard in the mail explaining the project before the natural gas crews perform the work," states the official update. If homeowners aren't present, a door tag with contact details will be left to ensure an appointment is made.

The neighborhood will witness sidewalk panels being removed and holes being excavated for the new service lines, a disruption that is necessary for the upgrades. The installations are tailored to meet safety guidelines requiring distance from windows, doors, and vents. Michels Corporation's crews are ready to move inside meters to the outside of residences, completing an essential phase of the project usually within a two- to three-hour window.

Following the relocation of their meter, homeowners are ensured that the technicians will safely relight any natural gas appliance pilot lights. "The technician will access the natural gas meter inside the house, move the meter outside, and relight the natural gas appliance pilot lights after the new meter has been relocated," according to CenterPoint Energy's service update. And for those with already external meters, notifications will be sent out before any work starts.

Any Lynnhurst local eager to get the latest scoop on the gas line work or in need of expressing their concerns is guided to check the project’s web page or to reach out to Hannah Gullickson, the Communication Specialist, at 612-321-5546 or via email. As infrastructure enters a modern era, calls for patience echo through the neighborhood, assuring residents that these upgrades are stepping stones toward a more reliable and safe natural gas system.