Consumers Energy modernizes gas systems, boosting reliability in Kalamazoo

KALAMAZOO, Mich. — Consumers Energy is upgrading their natural gas systems across Michigan.

The project, which launched this summer, aims to update 135 miles of Consumers Energy’s existing cast iron and steel pipelines, some of which are more than a century old, according to officials.

This includes 12 miles of the company’s pipeline in Kalamazoo County.

“These projects are a visible demonstration of Consumers Energy’s commitment to delivering natural gas safely, affordably and reliably to our friends and neighbors who count on us,” Holly Bowers, Consumers Energy’s vice president of natural gas engineering and supply, said July 7. “We focus on work that will have the most impact, ensuring that our natural gas system will be reliable for many more years.”

Work in Kalamazoo has already begun at two locations: Westwood/Oshtemo and eastern Kalamazoo near Edison, according to Consumers Energy Media Relations Specialist Matt Johnson.

Crews began working to update Consumers Energy’s gas system near M-43 and Drake Road in late spring. This project should be wrapping up sometime during the summer, Johnson confirmed to News Channel 3.

Work to replace pipelines south of Eastwood and closest to the Edison neighborhood, which began in February, is expected to continue into November, according to Johnson.

“We appreciate the patience of our customers as we carry out these upgrades in the coming months and continue to deliver natural gas reliably and affordably, regardless of what Mother Nature throws at us,” Bowers said.

Consumers Energy’s project is part of its Natural Gas Delivery Plan, which aims to ensure its system remains safe in all weather, according to officials.

Modernizing the system also aims provide affordable gas to homes and businesses across the state, and looks to “spark the economy with job-creating construction projects over the next decade,” officials said.

In all, Consumers Energy is working to replace lines in the following areas:

Southeast Michigan – 18 miles in Livonia, 18 miles in Warren, 7 miles in Bloomfield, 6 miles in Pontiac and 2 miles in Royal OakFlint – 10 miles in Flint, 6 miles in Owosso and 2 miles in FowlervilleSaginaw/Bay City – Two projects in Bay City (8 and 9 miles), 5 miles in Saginaw and 3 miles in FrankenmuthLansing – 14 miles in HoltMidland – 10 miles in St. Louis, 1 mile in Ithaca, 3 miles in Auburn

More information about Consumers Energy’s Natural Gas Delivery Plan can be found online.