The Yankee Gas natural gas pipeline project will begin its construction phase next week, according to an op-ed press release distributed by first selectman Bill Brennan.
What’s more, because Wilton is the first town in the state breaking ground and partnering with Yankee Gas on this project, Gov. Dannel Malloy has notified the utility that he wants to come to Wilton to help kick off the project with a ribbon cutting.
“We’ve been advised that the governor is interested in cutting the ribbon. It’s a program he was very active in, a comprehensive energy strategy, he’s supported it. We said, ‘absolutely, the governor is always welcome,’” Brennan said at Monday evening’s Board of Selectmen meeting.
“Depending on the governor’s schedule, we’re the first town to do this, this is a big event. We don’t have the date yet, but he wants to be here,” Brennan added.
Below, what follows is the text of Brennan’s announcement:
“As reported earlier, the Town of Wilton reached agreement with Yankee Gas to expand distribution of natural gas in the Wilton village and school areas. Agreements were executed on schedule and construction will begin during the last week of July.
“We have timed the start of construction during the traditionally lowest level of village traffic and pedestrian activity. The July-August period takes many citizens and their families out of town for planned holiday vacations. Consequently, it will enable Yankee Gas installation crews to hopefully install pipe quickly during this activity lull in the Center St./River Rd. area.
“The objective is to complete construction in the village center down to the condo area on River Rd. by August 22. Another priority site will be from the corner of School Rd. and Cider Mill School along Kristine Lilly Way to Wilton High School, which hopefully will be completed by August 21, prior to school being resumed on August 25. A third crew will also be scheduled to start construction on Wolfpit Rd., [heading] west from Rt. 7 across the Norwalk River and Metro North train tracks to River Rd.
“All of these areas will cause temporary traffic congestion due to the construction, but the installation should be completed in four months by the end of November. Bear in mind that when the Department of Transportation widened Rt. 7 through Wilton, it took approximately 3.5 years! With everyone’s patience and some alternate route planning, I am confident that we will all survive the four month construction period for the gas line expansion project.
“In summary, having another energy alternative in our community will enable the Town to conservatively save $450,000–$500,000 per year on fuel costs, as carefully calculated by the Town’s Energy Commission. The availability of natural gas will also offer potential savings to many community businesses, residences and other facilities adjacent to the pipeline route.
“As gas is a cleaner burning fuel, there will be less emissions, which will also contribute to accomplishing one of the Town’s long-range environmental objectives.
“Lastly, please check the Town’s website for updates to scheduled construction plans and work locations.
“Thanks again for everyone’s cooperation and patience over the next four months.”
Someone better send Malloy directions. Don’t think he knows where Wilton is…