U.S. Army Corps of Engineers extends federal permitting process for Great Lakes Tunnel Project

March 24, 2023

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ (USACE) decision to extend the federal permitting process for the Great Lakes Tunnel Project further delays the replacement of the dual pipelines in the Straits of Mackinac and effectively pushes the start of construction to 2026.

While we are supportive of a thorough, comprehensive and carefully considered permitting process that ensures adequate opportunity for review and comment, we are disappointed with the extended timeline for a project of this scope.

The Great Lakes Tunnel Project covers only approximately four miles in length, will require no construction within the waters of the Straits, and is anticipated to impact less than one-quarter acre of wetlands. Enbridge submitted its application for the Great Lakes Tunnel Project to the USACE in April 2020. As such, the USACE is estimating it will need six years to review and issue a decision for the project.

Enbridge believes strongly in the advantages of the Great Lakes Tunnel Project for protecting the environment, providing reliable energy transportation to the region, and bolstering the regional economy for years to come. We are committed to this project, the continued safe operation of the Line 5 crossing of the Straits, and ensuring an uninterrupted supply of reliable, affordable energy to Michigan and the region.