North Michigan News

Enbridge will go forward with construction of the Line 5 Tunnel, and state Rep. Michele Hoitenga (R-Manton) recently commended them for hiring two companies to begin construction.

“I’m glad Enbridge is taking steps in the right direction, despite misguided legal challenges posed by environmental extremists such as  Attorney General Dana Nessel,” Hoitenga said to the  Michigan House Republicans. “Building a multi-use  utility tunnel is our best option for protecting our Great Lakes,  reducing the risk of an oil spill between Michigan’s peninsulas, and  providing energy security for Northern Michigan communities.”

Enbridge's Line 5 is a light crude and natural gas liquids pipeline. The plan is to replace the existing Line 5 dual pipelines at the Straits of Mackinac with a pipeline secured in a larger underground tunnel, deeper underneath the Straits. Hoitenga said the tunnel will protect the state's natural resources while contributing to the energy market of northern Michigan. 

“I also appreciate that Enbridge will pay the full $500 million for this project, not taxpayers,” Hoitenga said. “This is going to create many good-paying jobs. It’s disheartening to know environmental extremists  will sacrifice the prospect of employment and promising futures.”