Discussions around the Line 5 Pipeline have begun again, and the State of Michigan has initiated an open comment period to hear what people have to say. Too often, when energy infrastructure and pipelines are the topic, the only voices seem to be those of politicians and extremists. That’s why it is more important than ever that we make our voices heard – the voices of the highly skilled workforce that builds and maintains the pipelines necessary to keep this state and country running.
We are no strangers to the facts. Pipelines continue to be the safest, most efficient way to transport fuel. The fuels that keep our lights on, that power every car and bus getting people to work and school, that heat us in the winter and cool us in the summer. Any current alternative source to get this fuel to market carries far more dangers than pipelines. Trucks, trains and ships all carry more risk to each and every one of us than all of the pipelines in existence.
Michigan depends on pipelines for energy, jobs, and economic vitality – and will for years to come. Pipelines are integral to Michigan’s livelihood. More than 9,500 miles of state pipelines ensure local homes and businesses can keep their lights on.
Enbridge Line 5 has served Michigan for more than six decades. The pipeline supplies propane to heat nearly nine in ten homes in the Upper Peninsula and Northern Michigan. Detroit refineries process nearly one-third of the oil transported by the pipeline. That same oil supports the city’s thriving auto industry.
Line 5 also helps local schools, transportation, and other public services. In 2014 alone, it contributed $18.3 million in property taxes and $4.1 million in sales taxes.
There’s another fact that often gets overlooked: Thanks to a slew of safety measures, the pipeline has a pristine record of safety. It is monitored 24/7 by workers and automated devices, and is regularly checked using the most modern inspection tools. To further ensure safety, the pipeline operates at less than 25 percent of its maximum pressure capacity.
We are Operating Engineers. We train tirelessly to ensure maximum safety on every pipeline we work on, and our record and reputation speaks for itself. We believe in the importance of the environment. Our members are Michigan residents and very often outdoors-people and sportsmen and women. We pride ourselves on the work we do and the place we live. Its time we – the men and women putting their training, experience and reputation on the line every day to make this state a great place to live and work – had our voices heard. Reach out to the State of Michigan at the web address below, or even better, attend one of the listed open meetings, and tell them Line 5 is necessary to the working people of the state of Michigan.
Fraternally,
Douglas W. Stockwell
Business Manager & General Vice President
State of Michigan Public Comment Link
State of Michigan Public Feedback Session Schedule:
• Monday, July 24 beginning at 8:00 a.m. at Holt High School (5885 Holt Road, Holt, Michigan, 48842)
• Monday, July 24 beginning at 6:00 p.m. at Hagerty Center at Northwestern Michigan College (715 East Front Street, Traverse City, Michigan, 49686)
• Tuesday, July 25 beginning at 6:00 p.m. at Little Bear East Arena (275 Marquette Street, St Ignace, Michigan, 49781)