Citizens Energy Group to begin final upgrades on east side natural gas pipes

The last stretch of upgrades to natural gas pipelines are underway on the east side of Indianapolis.

Citizens Energy Group announced Monday the start of a multi-year project to replace four miles of natural gas pipes in Avondale Meadows, Martindale Brightwood and Far East Side neighborhoods.

The President and CEO of the Edna Martin Christian Center, Barato Britt, touted the improvement plans in a press release, stating “the safety of our infrastructure systems is critical for our neighborhood's vibrancy.”

This year’s pipe replacement work will focus on the area between Fall Creek Avenue and 30th Street.

The utility company received a $7.5 million federal grant in 2023 to replace the legacy infrastructure with steel or plastic pipes, which are more resistant to leaks and corrosion. The replacement infrastructure will also reduce the potential for emissions of methane gas.

Citizens Energy said it will continue to invest in upgrades in neighborhoods most in need of improvments across service areas.

Contact WFYI Morning Edition newscaster and reporter Abriana Herron at aherron@wfyi.org.