Key Initiatives:
As part of BGE's STRIDE plan, Operation Pipeline is BGE's multi-year initiative to modernize our systems to support the growing communities of Maryland. We will be upgrading hundreds of miles of natural gas pipes and equipment in dozens of communities. The purpose of Operation Pipeline is to proactively replace cast iron and bare steel pipes with new, durable gas mains that will better serve customers for decades to come. This program also helps maintain the safety and reliability of BGE's service to improve the quality of life for our customers.
Watch an overview video of the Operation Pipeline program. The video is available in English (left) and Spanish (right). Vea el resumen en video del programa Operation Pipeline. Este video está disponible en Ingles (izquierda) y Español (derecha).
The map below highlights communities where Operation Pipeline projects are currently under way or have been completed. You can zoom in to see the boundaries of certain projects or visit our frequently asked questions page for more information.
You can also contact the project team directly at 1-410-470-7700 or OperationPipeline@BGE.com with specific questions and concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions About Operation Pipeline
Projects Currently Underway or Beginning in 2018 (yellow pins on the map below):
Zoom in to see the street boundaries of Operation Pipeline projects (Yellow pins are underway or starting. Green Pins are completed.)
Project Overview: In 2018 BGE will be relocating a section of an existing underground natural gas pipeline located in Leakin Park in Baltimore City. The section of gas pipe that is being replaced in the park is part of BGE’s 16-mile Granite Natural Gas Pipeline, a critical component of the region’s natural gas system that serves more than 650,000 customers. This $31 million investment will help ensure continued safe and reliable service throughout central Maryland.
The existing BGE pipeline (yellow line on map), known as the Granite Pipeline, was originally constructed through the park in 1949 and was the first to bring natural gas to the Baltimore region from interstate pipelines. The existing line runs through sensitive wetland areas of the park along the Dead Run tributary of the Gwynns Falls.
The new route (red line on map) avoids the Dead Run wetlands and retires the existing pipeline that is located within the 100-year flood plain. A 50-foot right-of- way over the relocated pipeline route will be maintained as open space to allow for regular inspection and access. The original pipeline will be decommissioned and the area above it will be allowed to return to its natural state, including re-planting native tree species to restore the tree canopy.
Work began in February and will continue until the fall. Over the course of the project, those near the pipeline construction zone may notice equipment storage areas, vegetation removal, excavation, temporary lane closures and other operations. There will be some noise, dust and light debris, but we will work to minimize the disturbance and we appreciate your patience during construction. BGE will also perform a full site restoration, stabilizing and re-seeding construction areas.
As part of its agreement with Baltimore City, BGE has committed to the following park and community improvements:
Contact Information: If you have any questions, please contact BGEPipeline@bge.com or call 1.800.685.0123 and reference the Granite Pipeline Relocation Project. A member of the project team will respond to your inquiry.
