UGI Utilities, Inc. has initiated a natural gas main replacement project in Macungie that serves dual purposes of infrastructure modernization and potential energy conversion for residents and businesses. The project, which started in early October, focuses on replacing aging mains while simultaneously creating opportunities for properties along the construction route to transition to natural gas service. This strategic approach allows UGI to address infrastructure needs while supporting customer energy choices through coordinated conversion efforts during planned system upgrades.
The construction work centers on several key areas including South Church Street and Mountain Road between East Main Street and Lorene Drive, the intersection of East Main Street and South Church Street, Locust Street between South Church Street and Pine Street, and Cedar Street between South Church Street and Spring Street. By targeting these specific locations, UGI can efficiently replace outdated infrastructure while maximizing the potential for energy conversion among properties that previously lacked access to natural gas service. The project represents a systematic approach to infrastructure investment that considers both immediate replacement needs and long-term energy accessibility for the community.
Construction operations are scheduled Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with completion of the new natural gas main installation expected by the end of December. During this period, residents and businesses should anticipate road closures, detours, and parking restrictions as work progresses. The project will also involve temporary interruptions to natural gas service, requiring UGI personnel to access properties for equipment inspection and relighting procedures. Following completion of underground work, temporary restoration will occur immediately, with final paving scheduled for a later date to minimize long-term disruption to the community.
The timing of this infrastructure project creates a unique opportunity for property owners to coordinate conversion efforts with the system improvements, potentially streamlining the transition process for those considering natural gas adoption. By aligning main replacement with conversion opportunities, UGI reduces the need for separate construction projects and minimizes overall disruption to the community. This approach demonstrates how utility companies can integrate multiple objectives into single infrastructure projects, creating efficiencies while expanding service options for customers. Additional information about UGI's services and approach to infrastructure modernization is available at https://www.ugi.com.
The Macungie project represents UGI's ongoing commitment to delivering safe and reliable natural gas service while supporting customer energy choices through strategic infrastructure investments. By replacing aging mains and creating conversion opportunities simultaneously, the utility addresses both immediate infrastructure needs and long-term energy accessibility for the community. This dual-purpose approach to utility infrastructure projects demonstrates how system upgrades can serve broader community energy goals beyond basic maintenance and replacement requirements.
