Construction ramps up on Enbridge's 41-mile Line 5 reroute in Wisconsin
(UI) - Construction activity is increasing on Enbridge's proposed 41-mile Line 5 reroute in northern Wisconsin, with more than 500 workers now mobilized as crews prepare for major pipeline installation work.
According to Enbridge, crews are currently clearing the pipeline right-of-way, installing temporary access roads and preparing drilling operations along the route. The $450 million project will reroute a segment of Line 5 around the Bad River Band reservation and includes crossings of 186 waterways and approximately 101 acres of wetlands.
Michels Pipeline Inc., based in Brownsville, Wisconsin, is leading construction activities along with regional subcontractors, Wisconsin Public Radio reported. Enbridge began work on the reroute earlier this year after receiving its final permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The company said the project is expected to support hundreds of construction jobs and provide economic benefits for local businesses during peak activity.
Construction is moving forward while several legal challenges remain pending, according to WPR. The Bad River Band and environmental groups continue to contest state and federal permits tied to the project, citing concerns about wetlands, waterways and other environmentally sensitive areas. Court proceedings are ongoing, although recent rulings have allowed most construction activities to continue while the challenges are reviewed.
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