Eversource Preparing to Replace Gas Lines in New Bedford, Dartmouth

During this construction season, Eversource is planning improvements to its natural gas lines throughout the state. The energy company has invested $53 million to replace about 35 miles of decades old gas lines made of cast iron and steel.

Eversource spokesman Mike Durand says the lines may not be extremely old, but still need to be replaced. "The age of the pipe itself is not necessarily a determination of its fitness for duty, so to speak," says Durand. "But we do monitor the system. We know areas that are prone to having leaks. Those are the ones that we focus the most on."

The new pipes will be made of corrosion-resistant plastic, and are able to withstand and adapt to varying underground conditions.

Durand says Eversource will replace about four miles of gas mains in New Bedford and one mile in Dartmouth over the next year.