For Immediate Release
$320 million a year program would create 500 direct jobs
Springfield, NJ – March 2, 2015 – International Union of Operating Engineers Local 825 today announced support for PSE&G’s proposal to invest $1.6 billion over the next 5 years to modernize its gas systems.
The utility’s Gas System Modernization Program would include replacing an average of approximately 160 miles of cast iron and unprotected steel gas mains, and about 11,000 unprotected steel service lines to homes and businesses per year, over five years. The utility requested funding in a filing with the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities.
“PSE&G’s proposed gas modernization program would have a positive impact on a number of fronts,” said Greg Lalevee, Business Manager of Operating Engineers Local 825.
“It would replace New Jersey’s aging cast iron and unprotected steel gas pipes at an accelerated rate — supporting safe, clean and reliable gas service — while creating 500 direct jobs for people in New Jersey and having a positive impact on the state’s economy.”
Local 825 is headquartered in Springfield, N.J., and represents more than 6,500 operating engineers throughout New Jersey and five counties of lower New York: Rockland, Orange, Ulster, Sullivan and Delaware. Its members operate heavyequipment – such as cranes, bulldozers, graders, pavers, pile drivers backhoes and loaders – to execute large construction tasks and earthworks operations.
Contact
Greg Lalevee
Business Manager, Local 825
(973) 671-6900
PR Contact
Bill Carlos
Avow Communications
(908) 499-7862