Line 5 Tunnel Project faces scrutiny over 'lacking' environmental impact assessment
Michigan environmental groups are expressing concerns regarding the ongoing review of the Line 5 tunnel proposal, particularly as they believe the state is not fully assessing its environmental impact. According to 9&10 News, The Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) confirmed that their analysis does not include the effects of tunneling through the Straits of Mackinac, prompting calls for a more comprehensive review.
EGLE is examining the effects on wetlands and Great Lakes bottomlands but excludes the actual tunneling process, which EGLE spokesperson Scott Dean stated is not covered under their permit reviews, 9&10 News reported. Advocacy groups argue that this limited scope contradicts the state's mission to protect the Great Lakes and the intended regulatory oversight established by Michigan's environmental laws.
Zoe Zeerip from the Groundwork Center criticized the review for failing to address the risks to Michigan residents, highlighting the need for a thorough assessment of the project's potential impacts. Line 5 operator Enbridge, however, maintains that tunneling conditions have been confirmed as safe, pointing to approvals by the Michigan Public Service Commission and affirming compliance with specifications.
Environmental advocates hope that EGLE reconsiders the review process to ensure adequate protection for Michiganders amid climate concerns, as approval for the project may occur later this year, despite ongoing legal challenges.
Related News
From Archive
- TxDOT advances massive drainage tunnel beneath I-35 in Austin
- Glenfarne Alaska LNG targets late-2026 construction start for 807-mile pipeline project
- U.S. water reuse boom to fuel $47 billion in infrastructure spending through 2035
- $2.3 billion approved to construct 236-mile Texas-to-Gulf gas pipeline
- Major water pipe break in Puerto Rico hits over 165,000 customers
- Pennsylvania American Water launches interactive map to identify, replace lead water service lines
- Trump's tariffs drive $33 million cost increase for Cincinnati sewer project
- Utah city launches historic $70 million tunnel project using box jacking under active rail line
- Tulsa residents warned after sewer lines damaged by boring work
- Fatal trench collapse halts sewer construction in Massachusetts; two workers hospitalized
Comments