NPU receives $10.9M PHMSA grant

In April, Norwich Public Utilities (NPU) was awarded a grant for $10.9 million through the Natural Gas Distribution Infrastructure Safety and Modernization Grant Program, which is administered by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA). This funding follows a $10 million grant that was announced by NPU in April of 2023.

NPU’s applications proposed the disconnection and abandonment of 10.1 miles of higher-risk gas mains and the installation of 9.04 miles of new, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) gas mains throughout Norwich over the next five years.

Per the terms of these two grants, NPU will receive $21,597,000 for work that will be completed between 2024 and 2028. NPU is collaborating with PHMSA on the engineering, timing and logistics of the work and will then develop a construction schedule, engage with local contractors, secure materials and supplies, and get started.

“Norwich Public Utilities is very grateful to receive this very significant funding from PHMSA and the U.S. Department of Transportation,” said Chris LaRose, General Manager of NPU. “This funding will allow us to improve public safety and reduce leaks across our system, bringing enormous benefit to our community years ahead of schedule.”

“We appreciate the continued support and advocacy for NPU by Senators Blumenthal and Murphy, Congressman Courtney and the American Public Gas Association,” said LaRose.