2-month pipeline construction in Great Falls along 5th Street prompts detours

GREAT FALLS, Mont. – NorthWestern Energy announced it begin two-month project to replace a natural gas pipeline along 5th Street from 2nd Avenue North to 2nd Avenue South in Great Falls.

During construction, traffic will be detoured away from the work area using posted signs and barricades, NorthWestern Energy said in its announcements.

Construction might also result in “brief, temporary interruptions of natural gas service,” NorthWestern Energy said.

“We appreciate the patience and cooperation of our customers and the community as we complete this important infrastructure improvement,” NorthWestern Energy Community Relations Manager Shane Etzwiler said. “This investment will help ensure reliable natural gas service for years to come.”

NorthWestern Energy said the pipeline was originally installed in 1949 and that construction is a part of its efforts to improve the safety and reliability of natural gas service in the area.

Construction is scheduled to begin April 8 and to be completed around June 8.