Natural Gas Transmission and Distribution Pipeline Replacement

Client: Regulated Natural Gas Utility and Pipeline Operator

Challenge

A regulated natural gas utility and pipeline operator needed to replace an existing 16-inch pipeline with a new 24-inch pipeline spanning approximately 11,000 feet through wetlands and corridors involving multiple landowners. The upgrade would increase capacity while making the pipeline piggable, enabling in-line inspection (ILI) to verify pipeline integrity. Due to the project’s complex routing constraints, extensive engineering and design efforts were required to navigate National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) areas and successfully cross Union Pacific Railroad property, Louisiana Department of Transportation (LADOT) roadways and privately owned property. Careful planning and coordination were required to ensure the replacement could be constructed while addressing environmental, regulatory and stakeholder requirements.

Solution

Altamira’s Environmental and Engineering teams worked closely with the Corps of Engineers (COE), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the local public water supply system to identify environmentally sensitive areas, develop a design strategy that minimized impacts while safely routing the pipeline through wetlands and other potential constraints, and obtain the permits needed for construction. The team also collaborated with surveyors, regulatory agencies and local stakeholders to ensure the design met all applicable state and federal pipeline requirements.

The project culminated in a comprehensive engineering and design package that supported permitting, stakeholder coordination and construction planning, including:

  • Pipeline alignment sheets
  • Horizontal Directional Drill (HDD) plans and profiles
  • Detailed tie-in design drawings
  • Site plan and 3D model for the pig launcher and receiver facilities

Through careful environmental assessment, design optimization and regulatory coordination, Altamira delivered a constructible pipeline replacement design that addressed complex wetland crossings, utility constraints, transportation infrastructure and multiple landowner considerations.

Results

Through Altamira’s thorough due diligence and high-quality engineering and design efforts, the project successfully progressed from the Issued for Review (IFR) stage through Issued for Construction (IFC), with all deliverables on schedule and accepted by the client. The completed design packages provided the client and construction teams with a clear roadmap for navigating complex environmental, regulatory and infrastructure constraints while meeting all applicable engineering requirements.

The engineering package addressed requirements and coordination efforts involving the COE, LADOT, Union Pacific Railroad and various state and local agencies, helping streamline project execution and reduce construction risk. As a result, the client was able to confidently advance the pipeline replacement through permitting, planning and construction phases.

The success of this project further strengthened the client relationship, leading to Altamira being selected to provide ongoing environmental support and consulting services for additional projects.

For more information, please contact Trey Whitley or Colby Lowrie. 
Trey can be reached at [email protected] & Colby can be reached at [email protected]

Empower Your Next Project With Altamira’s Expertise

Whether you’re addressing regulatory requirements, improving asset integrity, reducing emissions or planning critical infrastructure projects, Altamira delivers the technical expertise and practical solutions to help you succeed. Contact our expert team and discover how we can support your operational, environmental and compliance goals.

Contact us today to discuss your project.