Residents in the Jordan West neighborhood can expect to see crews working on upgrading the natural gas infrastructure starting early November. According to a recent update, CenterPoint Energy's authorized contractors will be replacing natural gas mains and associated service lines. This effort is part of a project aimed at ensuring the delivery of safe and reliable natural gas services.
The construction entails several phases of work, which includes also moving indoor meters outside. To minimize disruption, the company has assured that the pipes being used in the pipeline replacement and modernization projects are designed to be more resistant to corrosion and leakage. "The pipes used in these pipeline replacement and modernization projects are more resistant to corrosion and leakage, helping us continue to provide the safe, reliable service you count on that keeps you comfortable in your home," according to a statement released by CenterPoint Energy.
Marking of utilities prior to digging will be one crucial step, where CenterPoint Energy will coordinate with Gopher State One Call 811 to ensure that public underground utilities like water, sewer, and cable are identified. Residents will also need to mark any private lines, such as sprinkler systems or dog fences, to avoid accidental damage during the construction process.
Traffic is expected to be moderately impacted, with certain sidewalks and roads closed intermittently to accommodate the construction process. Most traffic impacts will include "one sidewalk closed at a time with the opposite sidewalk open," as per CenterPoint Energy's bulletin. Some parking closures on both sides of the road will be necessary as well. Residents are asked to prepare for closures on several roads including sections of N Sheridan Avenue and W Broadway, forming a triangle shape, among others.
For service line and meter work, customers will be notified in advance and appointments will be scheduled to suit their schedules. A postcard from CenterPoint Energy will be sent to residents before work commences. "The customer will receive a CenterPoint Energy postcard in the mail before the natural gas crews perform the work," the update stated, ensuring that residents will have notice prior to service disruptions.
Restoration of affected areas will follow after the main gas line and meter work is complete. Temporary measures like backfill with dirt or gravel will be used initially with permanent restoration involving black dirt, grass seed, and netting to follow. The company has advised that the netting will degrade over approximately four months but recommends residents to remove any loose staples from the netting before mowing the restored area.
Queries and concerns regarding the project can be directed to the company's communication specialist, with contact information provided in the official announcement. CenterPoint Energy has expressed gratitude for the community's patience and understanding as they proceed with the infrastructure upgrades, extending their wishes for a great season ahead.
