September 2025 Vol. 80 No. 9

Editor-in-Chief Robert Carpenter examines how surging LNG demand is reshaping pipeline construction, export capacity and global energy markets, with the U.S. and Canada racing to meet rising needs.

In Baraboo, Wis., HDD and HDPE conduit played a critical role in expanding the city’s emergency fiber network. Local manufacturer Teel Plastics supplied 12,000 feet of conduit for a fire and EMS project, keeping the installation on schedule and protecting the city’s historic downtown.

The 2024 CGA DIRT Report shows nearly 200,000 utility damages last year, with incidents rising instead of declining. Industry leaders warn stronger enforcement, mapping, and training are needed to protect underground infrastructure.

Canada is moving ahead with new pipeline projects to boost energy security and cut reliance on U.S. imports. Recent expansions like Trans Mountain and Coastal GasLink highlight growing investment in domestic and LNG export capacity.

The Horizontal Directional Drilling Association, in conjunction with Underground Infrastructure magazine, are pleased to announce the HDD Class of ’26.

CORINNA HUNT, Contributing Editor  When most people hear “drilling mud,” they think of the oil-based mud that comes from vertical oil and gas drilling, which can cause environmental damage to ground conditions when disposed of improperly. But oil-based dril..

Research activity at the Trenchless Technology Center (TTC) at Louisiana Tech University remains near all-time highs, both in terms of active projects and funding. The center currently has a dozen active externally funded projects, with several more in the p..

Unmatched Opportunity, Unstoppable Momentum.

In this month’s Tech Tips, NASSCO highlights how sonar technology is transforming sewer inspections by revealing conditions below the waterline that CCTV misses, improving maintenance planning and rehabilitation design.

The latest tools for underground infrastructure include TT Technologies’ new HDD rig, IPEX’s electrofusion clamps and fittings, and United Rentals’ AR planning tools — all designed to improve efficiency and reliability on job sites.

From New York’s revived pipeline fight to Houston’s proposed $760 million flood tunnels, underground infrastructure remains at the center of energy, safety and resilience debates. This roundup highlights key developments across the U.S. and Canada impacting pipelines, tunneling, and utility projects.