UGI Utilities, Inc. has started a natural gas main replacement project in Macungie that serves dual purposes of infrastructure modernization and energy conversion facilitation for area residents and businesses. The project, which began in early October, represents a strategic investment in the local gas distribution system while simultaneously creating pathways for properties along the construction route to adopt natural gas service. This coordinated approach allows infrastructure improvements and customer energy transitions to occur simultaneously, potentially reducing overall disruption and costs associated with separate projects.
The construction work focuses on several key streets including South Church Street and Mountain Road between East Main Street and Lorene Drive, along with the intersection of East Main Street and South Church Street. Additional work areas include Locust Street between South Church Street and Pine Street, and Cedar Street between South Church Street and Spring Street. By targeting these specific corridors, UGI can address aging infrastructure while maximizing the number of properties that can benefit from conversion opportunities during the construction window. The company's systematic approach to infrastructure modernization includes these conversion opportunities as an integral component of planned system upgrades.
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, drivers, residents, and business owners 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.
The timing of this project allows property owners to coordinate conversion efforts with the infrastructure improvements, potentially streamlining the transition process for those considering natural gas adoption. This represents a practical approach to energy infrastructure development that addresses both system reliability and customer choice simultaneously. UGI Utilities, Inc. serves more than 760,000 customers across its service territory as a natural gas and electric utility provider. Additional information about the company and its services is available at https://www.ugi.com. The Macungie project exemplifies how utility companies can integrate customer service opportunities with necessary infrastructure work, creating value beyond basic system maintenance while supporting broader energy transition goals within communities.
