Business, labor support Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) decision on tunnel project
Communities support, benefit from the Great Lakes Tunnel
Dec. 6, 2023
In a welcomed decision, the MPSC Dec. 1 approved by a 2-0 vote a critical permit necessary to advance the Enbridge Great Lakes Tunnel Project in the Straits of Mackinac.
“We find that Enbridge’s proposal to relocate the Straits single segment within a concrete lined tunnel housed at the bedrock deep below the lakebed represents the best option,” said Dan Scripps, MPSC chair.
MPSC staff told commissioners at the meeting that their analysis of Enbridge's request found there is a public need for Line 5's oil products, and that the route, location, and design of the replacement pipeline is "reasonable" and a "significant improvement" to the current placement on the bottom of Lake Michigan.
More than 70% of Michiganders support construction of the Tunnel, which will enable Michiganders and the region to continue to receive the energy from Line 5 on which they rely while reducing to zero the chance of a release into the waterways.
“The time has come—it’s time to build the tunnel. We now await federal approval, so we can begin construction.”
—Paul Meneghini, Enbridge manager of community engagement in Michigan
With the MPSC decision, Enbridge has received all state-required permits and is awaiting the final federal permitting decision, from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, before it can begin construction on the Tunnel.
“Enbridge appreciates the MPSC’s decision and the thoroughness the Commission took in this important matter,” said Paul Meneghini, Enbridge’s community engagement manager.
Meneghini went on to say, “The MPSC’s decision follows approximately four years of review and input provided by Michiganders. This decision is the next logical step in continuing to provide energy safely while increasing environmental protections, and we look forward to advancing it to the benefit of the region.
“The time has come—it’s time to build the tunnel. We now await federal approval, so we can begin construction.”
Meneghini is joined by many others lauding the MPSC decision. Read what Michiganders are sharing.
“The Michigan Public Service Commission did the right thing granting approvals for the project. This is the kind of infrastructure project that makes our energy more reliable, keeps it affordable, and protects our environment. We hope every other permitting agency follows the MPSC’s lead and lets us break ground soon!”
—Geno Alessandrini Sr., Business Manager for the Michigan Laborers District Council
“The Great Lakes Tunnel project will protect tens of thousands of Michigan jobs. We look forward to construction of this state-of-the-art infrastructure project that will protect Michigan’s access to affordable energy and our Great Lakes for generations to come.”
—Jim Holcomb, President and CEO, Michigan Chamber of Commerce
“Michigan labor depends on Line 5, and we’re excited to build the Great Lakes Tunnel. We’re grateful the MPSC took this important step and look forward to getting to work.”
—Price Dobernick, President Michigan Pipe Trades
“I’m thankful to the commission for realizing that the alternative options are not really options at all. Our whole infrastructure is built around propane, and Line 5 is the major artery supplying that resource. Cutting it off would be lethal.”
—Dave Prestin, Cedar River
“MPSC made the right call today, but it doesn’t excuse the overzealous effort to delay and kill the Enbridge proposal. The operation of Line 5 is essential. Enbridge is one the largest taxpayers in Cheboygan County. Without Line 5 tax revenue, entire school districts would be forced to close.”
—State Rep. Cam Cavitt, Cheboygan
“This is the safest and most efficient way to do one of the things Michigan does best: harness natural resources into power and opportunity for the entire nation and beyond. The fight isn’t over just yet but the biggest battle so far has now been won.”
—State Rep. Neil Friske, Charlevoix
“This is the best and safest option for Yoopers. There is no other realistic way to move natural gas without a pipeline. Trucking would be nearly impossible and would have a far greater negative impact. This is a common-sense solution that makes sense for everyone.”
—State Rep. Greg Markkanen, Hancock
“This is a huge win for Northern Michigan. Line 5 is crucial to our region given the number of people who heat their homes with fuel that comes directly from the pipeline. Shutting it down would burden folks who are already struggling to make ends meet with even higher costs.”
—State Rep. Curt VanderWall, Ludington
“I applaud the MPSC for withstanding political pressure from those seeking to appease environmental groups or polish their resumes for higher office and ruling that Line 5 is a critical energy source for Michiganders. The bipartisan tunnel project is the best and safest way to ensure Michigan residents can fuel their cars and heat their homes for years to come.”
—State Sen. Aric Nesbitt, Porter Township
Learn more about the MPSC decision.
