On August 18^th, NFIB provided public comment to the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy in support of Line 5 and the Great Lakes Tunnel project. Line 5 refers to a pipeline that runs below the Straits of Mackinac and carries light oil and natural gas liquids, which help fuel Michigan cars, trucks and SUVs, and heat homes.

The Great Lakes Tunnel project will move a portion of Line 5 out of the Straits of Mackinac and bury it far below the lakebed in a state-of-the-art tunnel, protecting the Great Lakes from any potential spills and the pipeline from anchor strikes. Currently, the project is still in the permitting process through both the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE).

“Small businesses are feeling the pressure from rising costs,” State Director Amanda Fisher said. “Ensuring the Great Lakes Tunnel project receives the necessary permits to begin construction is an important step to helping our main streets keep costs manageable.”

“After years of review, study, and input from every angle, the case for the tunnel has never been stronger. This is a shovel-ready project with broad public support, meaningful economic benefits, and a private funding source that won’t touch a dime of public money,” State Director Fisher went on to say.

Since the permitting process began five years ago, there have been more than 40,000 hours of survey work in the Straits. State and federal agencies have worked closely with industry to develop plans that mitigates the impact to the environment, natural resources, and the surrounding communities during and after construction.

Following the public hearing session, the DEGLE will issue a determination on the permits. Later this year, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is expected to issue a final environmental impact statement and permitting decision.