Chanhassen residents can expect some upcoming disruptions as CenterPoint Energy commences with the replacement of a segment of their natural gas main. According to a recent announcement, the project is set to begin on the first Monday of November 2024 and will span several weeks. The decision to update the pipeline infrastructure is focused on enhancing safety and reliability by using materials less vulnerable to corrosion and leaks.
The construction project will lead to traffic adjustments starting November 4, with road closures on key intersections, such as the southeast right turn lane from Highway 5 to Great Plains Boulevard and from Great Plains Boulevard to Lake Drive E. CenterPoint Energy has informed that the large-diameter steel main requires trench work, which will entail temporary road closures and potential inconvenience in the form of noise, dust, and vibrations. However, they have assured us there will not be interruptions in natural gas service during the period.
Efforts will be made to minimize the environmental impact of the construction work. Following the pipeline installation, the affected areas will undergo a restoration process, where the excavated zones will initially be backfilled. Later, landscaping restoration will take place with black dirt, grass seed, and biodegradable netting, "helping us continue to provide the safe, reliable service you count on that keeps you comfortable in your home,” the company promises.
Residents looking to safeguard their private utilities such as sprinkler systems or dog fences are asked to mark them clearly. Should utility flags remain post-completion, residents are permitted to dispose of them. The restoration aspect of the project is described as follows: "On boulevards and lawns, they will refill the areas with black dirt, grass seed, and netting that degrades over about four months." The intent is to leave the landscape as intact as possible after the necessary intrusions of progress have passed.
Questions and concerns can be directed to CenterPoint Energy’s Communication Specialist, with contact details made available on their website. The project reflects an ongoing commitment to upkeeping and improving the infrastructure to meet the community’s needs while striving to keep disturbances to a minimum. For more specific information on the traffic impacts and the restoration process, residents can visit CenterPoint Energy’s website or get in touch with their communications department directly.
