UP Gazette

State Representative Dave Prestin and a group of 34 state legislators have sent a letter to the Army Corps of Engineers, urging them to expedite their review of the Enbridge Line 5 Great Lakes Tunnel Project (GTLP). The Corps is currently conducting an environmental impact study of the project, with an estimated completion date of 2026.

In the letter, Rep. Prestin emphasized the importance of the tunnel project in safeguarding the Great Lakes while ensuring a continuous supply of energy to residents in Upper and Lower Michigan. He stated, "A tunnel beneath the Straits of Mackinac is the optimal solution to safeguard the Great Lakes while ensuring vital energy products are continuously provided to residents in Upper and Lower Michigan, as well as communities nationwide."

The Michigan Public Service Commission's 2023-24 Winter Energy Appraisal revealed that around 800,000 people rely on propane for heating in the state. Rep. Prestin highlighted the crucial role of propane in sustaining rural communities that often lack the energy and sewer infrastructure found in more urbanized areas.

The GTLP was approved by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy over two years ago, and the Michigan Public Service Commission sanctioned Enbridge's rerouting of the pipeline in late 2023. Rep. Prestin emphasized that these approvals demonstrate the necessity of the pipeline to provide fuel to the region while complying with Michigan's laws and environmental regulations.

Furthermore, Rep. Prestin cited an interview with MPSC Chairman Dan Scripps, who supported the tunnel project and confirmed that it represents an effective means of safeguarding the lakes while delivering essential energy. Rep. Prestin wrote, "the tunnel represents an effective means of safeguarding our lakes while delivering essential energy, with its alternatives posing a considerably greater threat to the environment."

The approval from the Army Corps is the final hurdle before construction can commence on the GTLP. The project holds significant importance for skilled laborers, with support from organized labor groups such as the Michigan Building and Construction Trades Council, the Michigan Laborer's District Council, and the United Steel Workers.

In conclusion, Rep. Prestin urged the Army Corps to expedite the review process of the GTLP. He stated, "Throughout its development, the GLTP has withstood rigorous scrutiny at every stage, substantiating its necessity, environmental soundness, and its standing as the optimal solution for preserving our Great Lakes and delivering essential energy resources. In light of the delays, we urge you to consider expediting the project through the EIS process."

The full letter sent by Rep. Prestin and the 34 state legislators to the Army Corps can be viewed here.