I feel that more studies need to be done, not only on the geology, currents and potential hazards and risks, but also I the fact that we truly do not use the products here in Michigan to need this project. The public deserves transparency and longer open comment period. Thank you for protecting our greatest resource- water.
The Midland Business Alliance (MBA) is a combined chamber of commerce and economic development organization and, as such, we represent 3,000 business in the Midland community. We strongly encourage the USACE’s approval of the permits for construction of the Great Lakes Tunnel.
Midland is 184 miles south of the Straits of Mackinac. And yet, we see the construction of the Great Lakes Tunnel as critical. We’re all aware of the economic impact of just the propane delivery to both the upper and lower peninsulas; no other delivery alternative is as safe or efficient. We also recognize the value and economic impact of the jobs the construction will create, and the tax revenue to the state from those jobs.
While of course the economic impact is important to the MBA, we are also vocal proponents of our natural resources. The MBA strongly believes our natural resources must be protected and believes the rules and regulations that protect the environment need to be common-sense oriented and based on sound science. Construction of the Great Lakes Tunnel, which will be approximately 100 feet below the lakebed, is the right step to protect our Great Lakes, as the risk of an environmental spill is zero.
Both the economy and environment are critical and protecting both can be done simultaneously. In May of 2020, Midland suffered a catastrophic dam failure event. We’ve seen the resulting calamity when infrastructure and natural resource considerations are not adequately balanced. The Great Lakes Tunnel represents the necessary balance.
By moving forward with developing and permitting the Great Lakes Tunnel, Enbridge is complying with provisions of agreements made with the State of Michigan and per Michigan legislative action (PA359 of 2018).
The Midland Business Alliance encourages your approval of Enbridge’s application to build the Great Lakes Tunnel under the Straits of Mackinac and replace the Line 5 pipeline within it.
Best Regards,
Diane Middleton, IOM
Vice President of Advocacy, Midland Business Alliance
Not only does it pose serious health risks, it is in sacred Native American land!!
If there were a break & discharge, it would be an environmental disaster with no recovery.
Water is our precious resource.
NO TO LINE 5!!!!
