Resolution sponsored by U.P. representative approved by Michigan House

State Rep. Greg Markkanen today urged state and federal authorities not to delay issuing the permits needed to proceed with the construction of the Great Lakes Tunnel Project.

Markkanen, of Hancock, introduced a resolution voicing support for the project and the job opportunities it will provide for workers in the Upper Peninsula and beyond. It was approved by the Michigan House today.

“Michigan has been looking into all of the options for years. Without a doubt, putting Line 5 in a tunnel deep beneath the Straits of Mackinac is the best long-term solution for our state,” Markkanen said. “It will protect the Great Lakes from the threat of a spill while ensuring Upper Peninsula families still have access to the energy they need to heat their homes each winter. As an added bonus, the construction project will create hundreds of jobs for Michigan workers.”

Last month, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (DEGLE) delayed a permit sought by Enbridge to build the tunnel. In a letter to the company, DEGLE requested additional information about alternatives to the tunnel. In April, the Michigan Public Service Commission also put Enbridge’s application to build the tunnel on hold until it could take public comment on the matter.

Markkanen noted that the Mackinac Straits Corridor Authority enter into the tunnel agreement with Enbridge on Dec. 19, 2018, in conjunction with agreements between the state and Enbridge. The constitutionality of the authority has since been upheld by the Michigan Court of Claims and the Michigan Court of Appeals.

“At some point, the delay tactics have to come to an end,” Markkanen said. “Enbridge has agreed to invest more than $500 million in this project to protect our natural resources and our economy at no cost to taxpayers. In addition, the construction of the tunnel will require about 2 million work hours from many of Michigan’s skilled-trade workers, including welders, operators, pipe fitters and other laborers. And maintenance of the tunnel will create high-paying jobs that will be a boon to local economies.”

Copies of House Resolution 282 will be sent to the Chief of Engineers and Commanding General of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the director of the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy, and the members of the Michigan Public Service Commission.

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