Blaine residents can expect a buzz of construction activity later this month when CenterPoint Energy launches its natural gas infrastructure project, slated to kick off as early as May 27. In a press release obtained by CenterPoint Energy, the company detailed its plan to replace aging plastic mains with upgraded ones and to coordinate with the City of Blaine's road reconstruction efforts.
Moving through the streets outlined in red in the company's provided map, the work will align with the city's initiatives, yet pose no financial burden to residents for the infrastructure upgrades. As crews descend upon the streets, residents should prepare for the sight of CenterPoint Energy's contractors, who, in a statement, remind locals about their identification process: "Employees of authorized contractors will have CenterPoint Energy identification cards." With multiple contractors involved, the company emphasizes safety and efficiency as it proceeds.
Ahead of digging, public utilities will be marked with spray paint and flags for safety reasons, urging residents to identify any private lines they may have installed, such as sprinklers or pet fences. Once the natural gas main work begins, some intersections may see temporary fill-ins like dirt or gravel before permanent restoration. This phase, replacing plastic mains nearing the end of their lifespan, is geared toward enhancing the safety and reliability of the gas distribution network.
Regarding service line and meter work, CenterPoint Energy has a plan to minimize inconvenience. "CenterPoint Energy will send a postcard in the mail before the service crew comes on site," according to their statement. Service lines and meters will also be repositioned as part of the process, with the company taking steps to schedule these changes in coordination with homeowners.
Following the underground work comes the restoration phase, where affected roads, sidewalks, and lawns will be returned to their prior state, albeit this will occur several weeks after construction concludes to ensure all other work is finished. Traffic disturbances are anticipated to include restrictions on street parking and closures or shifts in lanes, with the company pledging to communicate specific impacts as they emerge.
CenterPoint Energy extends its gratitude for the patience of the Blaine community throughout the duration of the upgrades. For more detailed information about the construction process and impacts, they invite residents to visit their website or contact their communication specialist at [email protected], or by calling 612-542-6198.
