Annual Pipeline Modernization Plan
As part of our commitment to delivering safe and reliable service, we’re partnering with our parent company, Avangrid, to modernize the natural gas system across our service areas. This work is part of our Annual Pipeline Modernization Plan, which aligns with the latest reliability standards Distribution Integrity Management Program (DIMP) under US DOT-PHMSA regulation.
Frequently asked questions
Aging infrastructure and more stringent safety standards have highlighted the need to upgrade gas mains within BGC’s service territory. This program will fix and replace leak prone gas pipes throughout Berkshire, Franklin and Hampshire Counties.
These projects will improve the overall resiliency of the entire system while simultaneously modernizing the pipeline components. The Annual Pipeline Modernization Plan will enhance reliability, address system repairs, and ensure performance for our valued customers.
The replacements will improve the safety and reliability of the distribution system due to more stringent safety standards in effect as compared to those when the system was initially installed. Increased reliability will be produced as the potential for gas leaks and inefficiencies are minimized. There are no noticeable above grade changes or impacts to the construction area, and the new gas system will safely provide exceptional service to the community for many years.
- To ensure safety, before work begins, BGC and other utilities will mark water, natural gas and other underground lines in the work area, possibly on or near your property. Please do not disturb these markings.
- During the first phase of the project, a contractor working on behalf of BGC, will install new natural gas mains. In most cases, this will mean temporary inconveniences, but we will work to ensure that you will have ready access to your driveway or parking lot. All the excavated areas will be backfilled as quickly as possible, most on the same day they are excavated.
- The next phase of the project will include putting the new mains in service and installing new natural gas services lines from the mains to homes and businesses. Again, excavated areas will be backfilled as quickly as possible and we will do our best to minimize inconveniences.
- For your safety and the safety of our crews, the service replacement part of this project will require that our contractor enter your home or business at a time agreeable to you to shut off the natural gas service for approximately 1 to 3 hours.
For our Annual Pipeline Modernization Plan, BGC has contracted with J.S. Rae.
If our natural gas meter is located inside your home or business, we will move it outside. Relocation of the meter to an outside location near its present location will be done at no cost to you. Our contractor will discuss this with you.
If any asphalt or concrete is affected, it will be repaired as needed. Please note that if natural gas service work occurs during the winter, permanent restoration will be scheduled for the spring, as soon as weather conditions allow.
Lawn, asphalt, and concrete restoration typically takes place within 60 days of the neighborhood project’s completion; weather permitting. For projects completed in the fall or winter, restoration will be postponed until spring.
This program runs continually throughout the year, weather permitting. We will send a notification postcard in advance of starting work in your neighborhood. In most neighborhoods, work begins 2-10 business days after properties have been fully flagged for various in ground utilities. Duration can vary greatly depending on several factors.
The service replacement part of this project will require our BGC Service Department to enter your home or business at a time agreeable to you and shut off the natural gas service for approximately 1 to 3 hours. When the work is complete, we will relight appliance pilot lights and ensure that everything is working properly.
You can direct any questions or concerns you may have about the Annual Pipeline Modernization Plan to:
Our Project Information Line: 888-295-3499
Email: outreach@uinet.com
A member of the Project Outreach team will get back to you within three business days. Please be sure to reference the Annual Pipeline Modernization Plan with your inquiry.