Michigan Approves Great Lakes Oil Pipeline Tunnel Permits

MICHIGAN — The state has approved applications filed by an energy company for the final permits required to build a four-mile tunnel under the Straits of Mackinac.

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy announced Friday that it approved Enbridge Energy’s application for certain permits required to build a utility tunnel under the Straits of Mackinac, replacing the 68-year-old Line 5 dual petroleum products pipelines currently on the lakebed.

“EGLE is obligated to review permit applications with the goal of protecting the environment and public health, but within the confines of Michigan law,” said Teresa Seidel, the director of EGLE’s Water Resources Division. “During our review of this proposed project, our top priority has been protecting the Straits of Mackinac and the surrounding wetlands, aquatic life, and other natural and cultural resources from adverse environmental impacts.”

The project still needs a Clean Water Act permit from the Army Corps and the state Public Service Commission will decide whether to allow placement of the new pipe in the tunnel, The Associated Press reported.

The Line 5 project and Enbridge have been controversial topics in Michigan due to the concerns that a pipeline leak could cause significant environmental damage to the Great Lakes.

A barge anchor was dragged across the pipeline in 2018, doing minor damage, The Associated Press reported.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer previously ordered a shutdown of Line 5 by May, saying Enbridge had violated an easement allowing pipeline operations in the straits. The Associated Press reported that the company is challenging the order in federal court and said recently it would not comply.

Enbridge has said the lines have never leaked and remain in good condition. The company said it recognizes the public's concern about the existing oil pipeline and said that the proposed tunneling project would have minimal impact on water quality. The state held four public information sessions, four public hearings and four tribal consultations prior to making its decision Friday.

“Although this proposed tunnel project has illuminated numerous related policy issues, the basis for our decision is required to be limited to compliance with the relevant environmental statutes created by our legislature,” EGLE Director Liesl Clark said. “Our review showed construction of the proposed tunnel could comply with state environmental laws. We have issued permits designed to ensure that if a tunnel is constructed, it will be in strict compliance with relevant statutes and adhere to stringent protections against impacts to the Great Lakes.”

Information and reporting from The Associated Press contributed to this report.