W.A. Rasic Construction installs seven gas lines in military energy overhaul
(UI) — W.A. Rasic Construction has completed a large-scale energy infrastructure upgrade at a major U.S. military training installation, converting the facility’s fuel system from propane to natural gas.
The project involved installation of seven new natural gas lines and roughly 80 valves across the base’s utility network. Crews also conducted isolation testing across 115 zones, with each section undergoing a three-hour pressure test to confirm separation and detect potential leaks or cross-connections.
The work was performed in coordination with the installation’s lead contractor and required careful sequencing to maintain uninterrupted operations at medical, command and residential facilities.
“We’re essentially overhauling the entire energy network,” said Kevin Morales, Project Engineer for the company, during the execution of the project. “The testing alone requires a great deal of coordination. Operational vehicles, training units, and residential traffic all share the installation’s roadways, turning simple logistics into a complex puzzle.”
Construction crews used crushed aggregate base sand and native soils for trench backfill to protect pipe integrity while limiting surface disruption. Work areas were carefully phased to ensure continued access throughout the active installation.
“The systems here aren’t as modern as you’d find in most cities,” Morales explained. “But navigating the additional approvals and detailed planning steps has made this an incredible learning opportunity. Seeing everything come together on such an important job is very rewarding.”
The transition from propane to natural gas is expected to improve system reliability and reduce long-term operational risks. The upgrade also aligns with broader federal efforts aimed at strengthening energy resilience across critical facilities.
W.A. Rasic, based in Long Beach, Calif., specializes in gas, water and heavy civil infrastructure projects across the Western United States.
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