Algonquin Gas Transmission, LLC (“Algonquin”) has asked us to let you know that Company personnel will be performing maintenance work at its valve site near Flintlocke Lane in Canton on Thursday, April 18th through Friday, April 19th. This work requires that small amounts of odorized natural gas be released intermittently. Because of the unfortunate events which occurred last fall in Lawrence, Andover & North Andover, Algonquin wanted to ensure that the Town is aware of this work in the off-chance that you hear reports about residents or businesses smelling gas near Algonquin’s facility. First Responders as well as area residents and businesses are being notified independently.
Algonquin personnel will be on-site during the entirety of the maintenance work and all integrity management activities will be conducted in a safe manner. However, there still may be an odor resulting from the odorant, mercaptan, which is injected into the natural gas to make it recognizable for safety reasons. There may also be a noise associated with this work. During the maintenance activities, if people in the general vicinity smell the odorant in natural gas or hear the noise associated with the controlled releases, there will be no danger to persons or property in the area. Importantly, First Responders will be notified shortly before and at the conclusion of the controlled release of natural gas so that they can respond to any calls which they might receive.
Again, events in the Merrimack Valley could contribute to concern among individuals who may smell the mercaptan. We are doing the best that we can to let nearby residents and businesses know that this is a planned, controlled release which does NOT pose a safety risk to the public.
Please let me know if you have any questions – much appreciated! In addition, questions may be directed to Algonquin’s Westwood Operations office at 508-938-7700 during normal business hours. Calls may also be directed to the Enbridge Gas Control 24-hour call line at 1-800-726-8383.
