Dupont Natural Gas Project receives nearly $1.5M grant for pipeline development

A Pipeline Investment Program grant, worth $1.49 million, was approved for the installation of 20,600 feet of a natural gas distribution main along various streets in Dupont Borough during a May 14 meeting of the Commonwealth Financing Authority.

The nearly $3 million project is a partnership between the Greater Wilkes-Barre Industrial Fund and UGI, which will contribute $1.49 million in matching monies to complete the project’s funding.

“Pennsylvania is the second-largest U.S. producer of natural gas and it is imperative that we continue to fund projects that can deliver this low-cost, homegrown resource to families and businesses across the Commonwealth,” State Sen. John Blake (D-Lackawanna/Luzerne/Monroe) said. “I applaud the Greater Wilkes-Barre Industrial Fund and UGI for their partnership and work on this important project for Borough residents and businesses.”

Once completed, this installation, which is Phase 3 of the overall project, will provide natural gas to 323 parcels, including eight commercial and 315 residential properties in Dupont Borough. It will also provide natural gas to the under-construction 36-unit Dupont Housing for the Elderly facility.

The gas line installation will help retain 35 jobs for existing commercial customers along the route.

The Pipeline Investment Program is facilitated by the Department of Community and Economic Development.