NPU secures $10 million in federal funding to modernize natural gas infrastructure

On April 12, NPU announced that it has received $10 million from the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration under the Natural Gas Distribution Infrastructure Safety and Modernization Grant Program.

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

Per the terms of the application, NPU requested $21,597,000 for work that could be completed between 2023 and 2027. NPU expects that the funds announced in April will cover a portion of this work.

NPU organized the work into five phases for each year in different sections of the city. Starting later this year, NPU expects to start construction in the North Main Street / Norwich Free Academy Area with subsequent work along Asylum Street, East Main Street, Taftville, Shipping Street and Laurel Hill to be completed in the coming years.

The process and timeframe for the funding to be released to NPU are being developed. With direction from PHMSA on the timing and logistics, NPU will then develop a schedule for work, engage with contractors, secure materials and supplies, and get started.

“Norwich Public Utilities is 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.