The State of Michigan is holding a number of public meetings online regarding the proposed tunnel under the Straits of Mackinac for Enbridge's Line 5. The first is being held Tuesday evening at 6 p.m. by the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy.
“Obviously, this is of great interest to a number of people both in and outside of Michigan; protecting the Great Lakes and the Straits is a top priority and we want to make sure the public has as much information as possible and has every opportunity to provide feedback on this proposed project,” said Scott Dean with EGLE.
Enbridge must obtain several permits from the state under the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act of 1994.
“Enbridge has submitted permit applications for work within wetland areas. Water discharges and under the submerged lands, portions of the NREPA law,” Dean said.
Anyone can participate in the online sessions. Comments can be submitted during the hearings or they can be submitted online.
EGLE and the Michigan Public Service Commission have regulatory authority. The Michigan Straits Corridor Authority within the Department of Transportation will oversee construction and operation if the Line 5 tunnel permits are approved. The agencies have a joint website about the project where all the informational meetings and public hearing dates are listed.
